Mental Health and Addictions Community Grants Available

A new community grant program will help organizations that support people living with mental illness and addictions issues in the province.

The Mental Health and Addictions Community Grants are new grants through the province's recently released mental health and addictions strategy Together We Can.

"This is just one of many initiatives to come from our mental health and addictions strategy," said David Wilson, Minister of Health and Wellness. "Helping those living with mental illness, substance use and gambling problems is an important investment that ensures they get the community help and support they need."

Funding grants are available for community organizations interested in programs for:

• children and youth
• aboriginal and diverse communities
• mental health and addictions promotion
• community supports
• reducing stigma and discrimination
• persons with disabilities
• the workplace
• substance use and gambling

Funding will range from $25,000 to $100,000, with an overall budget for 2012-13 of $500,000.

Online applications for the grants will be accepted until Dec. 7. For more information and applications, visit http://novascotia.ca/health/mhs/mental-health-addiction-strategy.asp .