PelhamToday received the following letter to the editor on Saturday's Mental Health, Poverty and Addiction Summit:
It was a privilege to attend The Mental Health, Poverty and Addiction Summit on Saturday in Thorold hosted by Advocate, Steven Soos.
The event was a true grassroots effort of awareness organized by residents with a variety of lived experience.
There were six panellists representing Municipal Government, agency representation and those with lived experience. Pelham Town Councillor, Wayne Olson served as the summit's moderator.
It was encouraging to see such a diverse audience, including residents of all ages, attentive and engaged in a safe space for open dialogue. The discussion revealed that our issues encompass a wide range of perspectives but require solutions that transcend municipal boundaries, political beliefs, and address long-standing stigmas.
Congratulations to the residents who were involved in orchestrating this important event, which also served as a fundraiser for Project Plaid. A Mental Health Movement in support of Pathstone’s Children’s Mental Health.
Thank you to Birchway Niagara for their important presence and to the various municipal, regional, and business representatives that came in support.
Thank you, Thorold, for being the inspiration for the rest of us to come together in education and support.
Jennifer Korstanje
Ward 3 Councillor, Town of Grimsby