Harper Government Welcomes Mental Health Strategy

A call to action for all Canadians

OTTAWA, May 8, 2012 /CNW/ - The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health, today welcomed the release of the Mental Health Commission's Mental Health Strategy for Canada.  The creation of the strategy was a key part of the Commission's mandate, and is based on the different experiences of over 2,500 people- including the general public, individual stakeholders and organizations across Canada.

"Improving the mental health and well-being of Canadians is important to our Government and a priority for Canadians," said Minister Aglukkaq. "The Harper Government is proud to have created the Commission, and I'd like to take this opportunity to thank MHCC Chair Dr. David Goldbloom, his predecessor, Senator Michael Kirby; Louise Bradley, President and CEO of MHCC; and their dedicated team for developing Canada's first ever mental health strategy."

Later in May, Minister Aglukkaq will attend the World Health Assembly in Geneva. Mental health will be a significant item on the agenda of the Assembly this year, and Minister Aglukkaq has invited Dr. Goldbloom to attend as part of the Canadian delegation.

On behalf of her colleague, the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, Minister Aglukkaq also announced a call for research proposals about the prevention of homelessness for those with mental health issues.

"Homeless people who live with a mental illness are among those most in need of improved services and supports," said Minister Aglukkaq. "By working in close collaboration with the Mental Health Commission, this program will generate projects that will build on the Mental Health Strategy for Canada launched today."

This funding is being provided through the Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS), a unique community-based program aimed at preventing and reducing homelessness by providing direct support and funding to communities across Canada.

For more information, please visit the HPS and the call for proposals.

For more information, please visit Mental Health Commission's Mental Health Strategy for Canada.

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