The First West Foundation has awarded Foundry Abbotsford with $15,000 through its Envision Financial Community Endowment.
Foundry Abbotsford provides local youth and their families with support for their mental-health, substance-use and overall wellness needs.
The grant will support walk-in counselling for an estimated 300 local youth at Foundry Abbotsford, which opened in June 2018.
“Being able to offer same-day walk-in counselling allows youth to get help when they need it and can prevent problems from escalating,” said Simone Maassen, the manager of youth services at Abbotsford Community Services.
“We’re so grateful that the First West Foundation is supporting this innovative service.”
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Walk-in counselling is currently offered Wednesdays and Thursdays at Foundry from 3 to 6 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis.
After identifying the most pressing issue in a youth’s life, the counsellor assists them using a strengths-based approach.
If youth need further assistance, they are referred to other longer-term services, many of which are available at Foundry.
“It’s exciting to see Foundry Abbotsford’s innovative approach to wellness coming to life and we’re proud to support their important efforts to build strong and resilient communities,” said Susan Byrom, executive director of the First West Foundation.
“Their integrated, collaborative and accessible approach to mental-health programming is going to have a significant impact on youth and families in the Fraser Valley.”
The Envision Financial Community Endowment awarded $367,000 to 33 different B.C. organizations. This year, grants in the Envision region are primarily for projects and programming aimed at those who are affected by a wide range of socio-economic factors.
Foundry continues to fundraise in order to run at full capacity and increase the number of youth it can serve. To donate, visit AbbotsfordCommunityServices.com/givefoundry