In response to surging demand for youth mental health support in the province, London Drugs today announced the launch of a new fundraising campaign: BE KIND. Between March 12 and April 1, 25 cents from Carlton and Papyrus Greeting Cards at London Drugs will go directly to the Kids Help Phone. At the same time, the BE KIND campaign encourages British Columbians to lift each other up by sending handwritten cards of encouragement, positivity and appreciation to each other.
“We are all living in more isolated circumstances,” said Clint Mahlman, London Drugs President and Chief Operating Officer. “Sending uplifting, reassuring and positive handwritten cards to friends, families, and neighbours is one way to improve our overall wellbeing and sense of connection.”
Last year, Kids Help Phone experienced a 102 per cent increase in the number of calls, text and connections from youth in BC. But with many of the charity’s annual donation campaigns impacted by COVID-19, finding new ways to raise funds has been critical amid surging demand for services.
“It takes courage to reach out and it takes a community to stand behind our young people,” said Elena Manica, Director, Community Partnerships, Kids Help Phone. “With thanks to the generous support of London Drugs, Kids Help Phone’s safe and trusted support service is available 24/7 for young people in British Columbia, no matter where they are or what they need, we are here for them.”
For over 31 years, Kids Help Phone has been the only 24/7 mental health support service available to youth in Canada. Young people can text ‘TALK’ to 686868 any time and receive free and confidential support.
ABOUT KIDS HELP PHONE
Kids Help Phone is Canada’s only 24/7 e-mental health service offering free, confidential support in English and French to young people. As the country’s virtual care expert, we give millions of youth a safe, trusted space to talk over phone or through text or in self-directed supports in any moment of crisis or need. Through our digital transformation, we envision a future where every person in Canada is able to get the support they need, when they need it most, however they need it. Kids Help Phone gratefully relies on the generosity of donors, volunteers, stakeholder partners, corporate partners and governments to fuel and fund our programs. Learn more at KidsHelpPhone.ca
