Local BMO branch staff and Kids Help Phone volunteers teamed up to host the 13th annual ‘Walk so Kids Can Talk’ in Barrie on Sunday, a nationwide initiative to support youth mental health. The 200-plus participants raised more than $42,000 for Kids Help Phone, a 24/7 e-mental health service offering free, multilingual and confidential support to Canadian youth. “We know that young people are in crisis,” said William Craddock, senior development manager for Kids Help Phone. “They need support for their mental health, and since 2020, we’ve helped young people over 22 million times.” Liv Lovering took part in Sunday’s walk and is among the many young Kids Help Phone volunteer crisis responders who assist youth on a daily basis. “A lot of times people don’t feel comfortable reaching out to people nearby, so it’s a confidential kind of platform where they can share what they want,” said Lovering. Barrie’s walk at South Shore Park was one of 16 taking place across the country, which raised nearly $4 million in total. “BMO has been a founding sponsor of Kids Help Phone more than 35 years ago,” said Melanie Cook, BMO vice-president of commercial banking in Barrie. “Our mission is to boldly grow the good in business and life, and supporting youth mental health aligns with that purpose perfectly.” Next year’s ‘Walk so Kids Can Talk’ is scheduled for Sunday, May 3, 2026.
