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Youth

Health Canada Invests $10 Million in Youth Mental Health Fund to Expand Integrated Youth Services in Alberta

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As part of its commitment to addressing youth mental health, Health Canada has announced a $10 million investment in the Youth Mental Health Fund (YMHF) to expand Integrated Youth Services (IYS) in Alberta. The IYS model provides a one-stop-shop for youth to access mental health, primary care, substance use, sexual health, and education or employment supports without a referral from a healthcare provider. This investment is part of a broader effort to support the expansion of IYS across Canada, with 115 hubs currently in operation and 50 more in development.

Key Takeaways:

  • The $10 million investment through the YMHF will be used to expand IYS in Alberta, building on the existing model that provides free mental health, primary care, substance use, sexual health, and education or employment supports to youth in one place.
  • The IYS model has been recognized internationally for its effectiveness in providing timely support to youth and their families, with minimal waitlists and barriers to access.
  • With this investment, IYS will expand to new locations in Alberta, strengthening existing services through peer programs, virtual supports, and more.
  • The funding will also support the connections between local hubs, provincial and territorial networks, and community organizations, ensuring youth can access help when and where they need it.
  • The YMHF has been instrumental in scaling and spreading IYS networks across Canada, with agreements signed in six jurisdictions to date.
  • Kickstand, a leading provider of integrated health and social services, has partnered with IYS to offer free virtual and in-person access to services for young people aged 11-25 years old and their families and caregivers.

Statistics:

  • $10 million investment through the YMHF to expand IYS in Alberta.
  • 115 IYS hubs currently operational across Canada, with 50 more in development.
  • $500 million in funding over five years as part of the YMHF, launched in November 2024.
  • 6 jurisdictions with agreements signed to scale and spread IYS networks.
  • 11-25 years old is the target age range for IYS services, with services also provided to families and caregivers.

Sources:

  • Government of Canada
  • Kickstand
  • Contify.com

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