In the three months since Prince George Spruce Kings goalie Jordan Fairlie launched his Lift the Mask on Mental Health campaign, $6,270 has been raised in support of programming put on by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) of Northern British Columbia.
“I'd like to thank the city of Prince George for the unwavering support throughout the duration of my Lift the Mask on Mental Health campaign,” said Fairlie. “I hope these funds will make a significant impact on the lives of those who are struggling with mental health and am looking forward to seeing the positive impact on our community.
“I'm glad to be able to raise awareness on such a critical and underrepresented issue within our society and to provide hope, support, and resources to those in need.”
Back in January, Fairlie pitched the idea and goal of his campaign to the CMHA. Some of the money raised will support CMHA’s Connections Wellness Centre on Norwood Street and some will be used to develop a peer-to-peer support group in Fairlie’s hometown of Fort St. John.
“It's been a pleasure to walk beside Jordan in his fundraising efforts," said CMHA of Northern BC executive director Sarah Lloyd. "We've had good talks about community mental health, and he is passionate about supporting the mandate for improved access in our region.”
According to the CMHA, peer support services are an essential part of the full spectrum of mental health services available and have been shown to complement traditional clinical care.
“There was a need for increased support in rural communities around Northern BC, including my hometown of Fort St. John,” said Fairlie. “It brings me immense joy to know that part of the funding from this campaign will go to support the community I grew up in.”
The 20-year-old Fairlie played two full seasons with the Spruce Kings in the BCHL and has been recruited to play next season for the University of Toronto Varsity Blues.
