A gala to champion mental health in our region took centre stage over the weekend. The Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care in Penetanguishene held its signature gala on Friday night at the Midland Cultural Centre. The purpose of the evening was to raise money to support advancing what Waypoint calls “critical mental health, addictions and women’s programs.” “At Waypoint, we believe no one should face mental health struggles alone,” Waypoint Board Chair Steve Parry tells the crowd. He went on to say last year, more than 12,600 people received support through more than 71,000 visits, both in-person and virtually. “From young people in crisis to older adults living with dementia, Waypoint is a lifeline for those navigating mental illness and addiction,” Parry says. “Through compassionate, expert care and cutting-edge research, we are changing lives today and helping shape a better tomorrow.” 104.1 Bounce Radio hosts Carey Moran and Steph Seidel hosted the evening. Feast Catering and Events provided a gourmet dining experience for guests. There was also a silent auction and a live performance by Canadian Indie rock band based out of Midland Born Ruffians. The group is fresh off their ninth studio album Beauty’s Pride. Members of Waypoint’s volunteer committee, the event’s presenting sponsor TD Bank group, colleagues at Georgian College and Midland Mayor Bill Gordon were all in attendance. “It is time to build a future grounded in hope and resilience, where no one is left behind and more people can access the care they need, when and where they need it,” says Becky Van Iersel, medical director and chief of staff at Waypoint. “Your support helps move that future forward. The time is now.” The money is going to the MHaven initiative, which helps to address intimate partner and gender-based violence. Specifically, funds will go towards enhancing access to innovative therapies, advanced technologies and evidence-based treatments. Money will also help to support upgrades to patient care environments, which will make them safer, more comfortable and better equipped for compassionate, person-centred care. According to Waypoint’s Mhaven team, violence-against-women agencies across Simcoe County received nearly 13,000 crisis calls and in North Simcoe, intimate partner violence-related calls increased by 64 per cent over the course of two years. For every donation made, they will all be matched dollar for dollar up to $20,000, thanks to the Sunderji family, Steve Duquette and Lynne Duquette, and Caredove.
