⚕️💵 Racing to Change the Future of Youth Mental Health
Saturday, 23 September 2023 05:06.PM
- 2023 RBC Race for the Kids Raises $2.5 Million for Sunnybrook's Family Navigation Project -
More than 7,500 participants took a giant step forward for youth mental health today, crossing the finish line for the 11th anniversary of RBC Race for the Kids in Toronto. Collectively they raised $2.5 million in support of Family Navigation Project (FNP) at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. Founded in 2013, FNP has changed the lives of thousands of youth with mental illness and/or addiction concerns and their families by connecting them with the specialized services they urgently need.
Quick Facts
• The 2023 RBC Race for the Kids is a 5 k.m. walk/ run charity race that takes place at Mel Lastman Square.
• The RBC Race for the Kids in Toronto, which is celebrating its 11th year, has attracted more than 74,000 participants and raised a total of over $22.5 million to date for Sunnybrook's Family Navigation Project (FNP).
• FNP was founded by Sunnybrook psychiatrist Dr. Anthony Levitt and a group of parents who experienced challenges navigating the complex mental health care system to find help for their children.
• FNP connects youth (ages 13 to 26) and families with clinically trained professionals who conduct assessments, analyze needs and provide navigation of the health-care and social service system.
• A FNP survey confirms the urgent need for youth mental health navigation services. Nearly one-third of Ontario families are caring for at least one youth with mental illness and/or addiction.
"Today brings to life one of the most meaningful celebrations of our purpose to help clients thrive and communities prosper, through the RBC Race for the Kids," said Kristina Depencier, Regional President, Greater Toronto Region, RBC. "It's incredible to see the support for the Family Navigation Project at Sunnybrook, as they work to support young Torontonians and their families. Thank you to everyone who has come out today and to those who have supported our teams."
SOURCE: Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre