Based on coverage from Castanet, CHEK News, Times Colonist, Williams Lake Tribune, and North Island Gazette.
The B.C. government is making strides in mental health and addiction support for youth by expanding Foundry services to five new communities. With a $1.7 million investment, the initiative aims to provide easier access to essential services for young people aged 12 to 24, along with their families and caregivers. The new locations will be in West Kelowna, Summerland, 100 Mile House, Pemberton, and Port McNeill.
New Foundry Locations in Okanagan
In the Okanagan, Summerland and West Kelowna are set to receive new Foundry locations. These centres will be operated by OneSky Community Services and the Canadian Mental Health Association Kelowna, respectively. Each location will be a smaller model linked to the nearest full-sized Foundry hub—Penticton for Summerland and Kelowna for West Kelowna. This setup ensures that youth in these areas can access a range of services, including drop-in counselling, peer support, and health care, without having to travel far from home.
Expanding Services on Vancouver Island
Port McNeill, located on the north end of Vancouver Island, is another community benefiting from this expansion. The new centre will be operated by the North Island Crisis and Counselling Centre Society and will connect with the existing Foundry location in Port Hardy. This expansion is particularly significant for rural communities where access to mental health services can be limited. The centre will offer both in-person and virtual support, ensuring that youth have confidential, low-barrier access to the help they need.
Addressing Community Needs in Smaller Towns
Pemberton and 100 Mile House are also on the list for new Foundry centres. These locations will operate within existing community spaces and will tailor their services to meet local needs. The approach involves working closely with youth and families to determine the specific services required, ensuring that the support provided is both relevant and effective. This community-driven model is designed to make mental health and addiction services more accessible and responsive to the unique challenges faced by young people in smaller towns.
Government and Community Leaders Speak Out
Health Minister Josie Osborne emphasized the importance of these new centres, stating, "Young people face more pressure and stress every day, and it's important they have a safe place to turn when life feels overwhelming." The expansion is part of a broader effort to ensure that youth feel supported and cared for within their own communities. Amna Shah, parliamentary secretary for mental health and addictions, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the goal of providing same-day access to mental-health and substance-use supports.
Future of Foundry Services in B.C.
Currently, there are 19 Foundry centres operating across British Columbia, with 16 more in development. The new locations announced this week are part of a larger strategy to expand mental health services throughout the province. While exact opening dates for the new centres have not been confirmed, the commitment to enhancing support for youth is clear. As these new centres become operational, they will play a crucial role in addressing the mental health needs of young people in B.C.'s smaller communities.
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