NANAIMO – New Democrat MLAs Sheila Malcolmson and Doug Routley say more young people will have better access to vital health care services, including primary care, counselling, early intervention, prevention and addictions supports closer to home with a new Foundry centre on the way in Nanaimo.m

“I’ve been blown away by how the Foundry centres we fund help young people in a special way. Bringing one to Nanaimo is going to change lives,” said Sheila Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo. “By offering mental health and primary health care, and many other peer-led services, young people will be supported and set up for success.”

Nanaimo has been awarded $1.5 million in provincial funding for a Foundry centre, and joins 25 other communities with centres that are already open or in development across B.C.

“Foundry Centres provide integrated health and wellness services for young people, making it possible for them to access five core services in one convenient location,” said Doug Routley, MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan. “I am so happy to see Nanaimo chosen for one of these centres, which will provide better access to help and support for young people in our area.”

Approximately 75 per cent of serious mental health issues emerge before age 25, and the pandemic, global uncertainty, and climate emergencies continue to disproportionately impact young people, resulting in increased rates of depression and anxiety.

Foundry centres are a critical part of the province’s work to address this increasing need for supports by offering young people ages 12-24 and their families access to free and confidential services including mental health and addiction counselling, physical and sexual health care, peer support and social services.

The Province continues to build on Budget 2023 investments of $236 million in new and expanded addictions care for youth and young adults, including almost $75 million for Foundry expansion and enhanced services.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/30397