Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Society (SFFCS) has provided $40,000 in funding to help Phoenix Society launch a new Youth Mental Health and Substance Use Program in Surrey.
The funds came from the 2021 Surrey Honda Raffle, in which the SFFCS raised more than $100,000 for mental health initiatives. Funds from the raffle that have been donated to Phoenix Society will support the new Youth Program, which will utilize the Society’s extensive experience in providing counselling services and running support groups. The program has been modelled after the successful Positive Psychology program at the Phoenix Centre, as well as a ‘”Bright Mind” curriculum.
“Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Society is committed to supporting mental health programs in our community. This partnership with Phoenix Society, and working together to support youth in our community, is a great fit,” said Saverio Lattanzio, President of SFFCS. “Many of our members struggle with mental health challenges, and it’s important that these crucial supports are available to all. We are proud to support Phoenix Society as it launches this much-needed program to support youth during such a critical period.”
Phoenix Society’s new Youth Program will deliver a 12-week education and curriculum to youth and their families in Surrey beginning this fall. The program will involve an assessment of each youth’s strengths, 12 classes rooted in “Positive Psychology” deploying student strengths, as well as a six-hour seminar for parents utilizing “Positive Parenting” philosophies.
“We know that adolescence is a crucial period for developing and maintaining social and emotional habits important for mental well-being. We are thankful for the support of Surrey Honda and the Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Society to help us launch this much-needed community based program,” said Keir Macdonald, Phoenix Society CEO. “Phoenix Society’s existing programs largely serve adults, but we recognize there is a crucial need for both community based support services and more intensive treatment services for youth. Expanding mental health and substance-use services for young people is an integral part in our fight against the drug poisoning crisis.”
About the Phoenix Society: Since 1989, Phoenix Society has grown from an idea, to its first programs and is now a multi-faceted, integrated service provider that offers a variety of programs and support services, helping residents and program participants achieve positive outcomes in their lives. A key purpose of the Surrey-based Society is to provide housing and support services for people at multiple entry points on the continuum. Learn more at phoenixsociety.com.
Phoenix Society Media Contact Amy Reid | [email protected] | 604.726.6107