A small charitable foundation is making a big impact when it comes helping people who have autism or are dealing with mental health challenges.
The Laurel Foundation has been working behind the scenes funding research and supporting programs for children with special needs since 1988 and this year is shining the light on the Hope for Freedom Society (HFFS), which provides supports for homeless people, many of whom face mental health challenges.
"It seems at this time that homelessness [in the Tri-Cities] is the greatest need," explained Colin Tisshaw, executive director for the Coquitlam-based organization.
Tisshaw said the Laurel Foundation has delivered $750,000 in endowment funds since its inception and is doing more to support people with mental health issues because it's a "grey area" that doesn't get much government funding.
On Feb. 24, the Laurel Foundation is hosting a gala event at the Port Moody city hall galleria to raise funds to continue the services of a psychiatric nurse who works with homeless people referred through HFFS. Tisshaw said Hope for Freedom is running out of funding for the nurse and he hopes to raise $15,000 to $20,000 to keep the program going.
According to HFFS statistics, 40% of Tri-City homeless have mental health or addictions concerns.
"If you can't help people get their heads straight, you can't really deal with all the other issues related to homelessness," said Tisshaw, who is also involved with the Tri-Cities Homelessness Task Force.
This is the second year the foundation has raised funds through a gala event. Last year, Tisshaw hosted a fundraiser that raised $15,000 for Share Family and Community Services.
This year's event will include wine tastings and a gourmet meal by Pasta Polo with foods sourced from farms and producers within 100 miles. There will also be a live and silent auction with items such as a Sony 42" LCD high-definition TV, an Acer netbook computer, a Sony DSC W370 digital camera bundle and a 16GB iPod Nano.
But the highlight of the evening could well be the comic troupe Stand Up for Mental Health. This group is made up of individuals facing mental health challenges who will share the lighter side of their lives in stories and sketches. Their stand-up comedy routines help promote understanding, break down stigmas and discrimination that surround mental illness.
Tickets cost $50 and there are limited numbers available. For tickets, call 604-942-7574 or go to www.laurelfoundation.ca; as well, you can visit Port Moody Arts Centre, 2425 St. Johns St., Port Moody, or call 604-931-2008.
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