The Community Foundation for Ireland has recently supported several organisations helping those with mental health issues and helping to promote positive mental health at a time when it is more important than ever. Apart from the obvious physical effects caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, there has also been a significant rise in those experiencing mental distress due to the fear, isolation, lack of social contact and economic uncertainty brought about by coronavirus. Organisations have had to learn new tools and respond quickly and innovatively to the needs of clients and funding at this time is crucial to ensure this.
Aware Northern Ireland received €25,000 through donations from Bank of Ireland. This will go towards expanding two of their current projects – a mindfulness programme with free online sessions and Mood Matters which helps teach positive mental health practices. CEO Karen Collins said “We’re all experiencing heightened levels of stress and anxiety at the moment so we’re delighted to be able to diversify our services to continue to offer support to people through our online support groups and helplines. The funding will enable our online mindfulness sessions which support up to 200 people every week. These are invaluable sources of support and we greatly appreciate it.”
Helplink Mental Health received €6,000 to support them in continuing to provide their services in Galway and Mayo. Their counselling sessions have moved online and will help reduce anxiety and stress levels for clients through therapeutic means as well as providing them with skills to look after their own mental health in the short medium and long term. Several other similar organisations such as Beacon of Light Counselling Centre, SOSAD in Louth/The Midlands and Limerick Mental Health Association received grants to ensure their services continue to be provided to those who need them.
A Lust For Life received €5,000 to implement their School’s Wellbeing programme; a mental wellbeing and resilience programme created by psychologists, teachers, educational specialists and children. This ‘Netflix’ style platform enables children to access engaging mental wellbeing content in an accessible, fun and scalable way, using language and issues that resonate. They commented: “Thanks to the Community Foundation for Ireland for the donation of €5,000 as part of their Covid-19 Community Fund. This will really help us roll out our Primary School’s Project to help strengthen the wellness of young people."
A strong and creative approach is needed in response to what may be a mental health crisis in the aftermath of this pandemic. If you would like to find out more information on how you can support causes close to your heart and improve the lives of vulnerable communities visit our Giving section here.