Government provides new mental health funding for Edmonton students

by Morinville News Staff

The province says a boost in mental health funding will support the success of Edmonton post-secondary students by providing furthering access to quality mental health programs and care.

Nearly $2.6 million of $25.8 million in annual government funding has been announced for three years to universities and colleges in and around Edmonton.

“Our government’s increased investment in student mental health programs is an important commitment to help students succeed,” said Marlin Schmidt, Minister of Advanced Education, in a release Monday. “Mental health challenges have a significant impact on far too many students, and we are making these public investments so all students across the province have access to these programs when they need them.”

The mental health funding allocations include:

Grant MacEwan University – $360,000
University of Alberta – $1 million
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology – $495,000
NorQuest College – $265,000
Burman University – $80,000
Concordia University of Edmonton – $90,000
The King’s University – $75,000
Athabasca University – $215,000

Deborah Saucier, president, Grant MacEwan University, said the post-secondary years are a time of extraordinary change in students’ lives.

“Along with the excitement and opportunity that change brings come challenges and stresses that can derail their school year,” Saucier said. “It is crucial that students are able to access supports to help them cope with and overcome these challenges, and give them the skills to succeed. It’s impossible to overstate the importance of this funding to the mental health and well-being of students at MacEwan—and across the region.”

Andre Costopoulos, University of Alberta vice provost and dean of students said the UofA is encouraged by the Government of Alberta’s commitment to student mental health.

“Mental health is a critical factor for student success,” he said. “This investment will guide our efforts to create a sustainable student mental health model and further partnerships with community resources that provide our students with access to the supports they need – when they need them and where they need them.”

More information can be found at Next Steps To Mental Health.

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