CMHA- Simcoe County

June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, which provides us an opportunity to recognize the history, heritage and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities.

At CMHA SCB, we understand that mental health support for Indigenous Peoples must be Indigenous-led, rooted in their culture and not imposed by systems that have historically done harm. We recognize that the mental health impacts of colonization, systemic racism and intergenerational trauma are lived experiences, here and now.

We remain committed to building lasting relationships rooted in accountability and reconciliation. Indigenous-led healing and culturally-safe care is the minimum.

There are many ways to take part in National Indigenous History Month. Whether you're just starting your learning journey or deepening your understanding, here are some ideas:

Read, watch and listen: seek out Indigenous art, literature, creators and educators

Explore Truth and Reconciliation: Download the Reconciliation: A Starting Point app to learn about the history of residential schools, the 94 Calls to Action and Indigenous rights

Understand where you are: use the Native Land Digital map to learn whose traditional territory you live on, and research how to respectfully incorporate land acknowledgements in your personal or professional settings

Amplify Indigenous Voices: share and celebrate Indigenous creators, leaders and community builders using the hashtag

If you or someone you know needs mental health support, there are culturally-grounded and trauma-informed services available:

Hope for Wellness Helpline: 1-855-242-3310 or chat online at www.hopeforwellness.ca

Talk4Healing (for Indigenous women): 1-855-554-HEAL (4325)

Kids Help Phone Indigenous Support: Text FIRST NATIONS, INUIT or METIS to 686868
Let’s use this time to build stronger relationships with Indigenous communities across Ontario, grounded in respect, truth and shared responsibility.

While 2SLGBTQIA+ communities continue to face disproportionately high rates of mental health challenges, substance use and suicidality, these experiences do not define the community.

There is also joy. Creativity. Leadership. Advocacy. Care for one another.

There are people building safer spaces, supporting one another through crisis, advocating for better systems and creating communities where others feel less alone.

At CMHA SCB, we won’t stop working toward a mental health and addictions system where every person feels supported and safe being who they are.

Read more about our commitment and how you can show up for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities across Ontario: https://cmhastarttalking.ca/pride-month-in-ontario-supporting-2slgbtqia-mental-health-and-community-care/

Pride Month in Ontario: Supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ mental health and community care - CMHA Simcoe County This June, communities across Ontario will engage with Pride Month in different ways, with local events, celebrations, and critical conversations reflecting on the experiences of Two-Spirit, Le***an, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Q***r, Intersex, Asexual+ (“2SLGBTQIA+”) people across the pr...

What a wonderful evening at the Spare Room in Barrie!
Spare Room, StART Making Sense, and the Canadian Mental Health Association Simcoe County Branch came together to present TWOgether—a collaborative exhibition designed to spark real conversations around mental health.

Still time to purchase the Limited-edition catalog + vinyl -$50 | proceeds support CMHA SCB | signed by all 20 artists) visit the Spare Room Tues. Wed. Thurs. Friday 6-8 and Sunday 12-5 to get your catalog!

Behind so many families, there’s someone quietly holding everything together.
Driving to appointments. Managing medications. Making meals. Worrying. Advocating. Showing up, day after day.
Caregiving can be deeply meaningful, but it can also take a real toll on mental health.
This Caregiver Awareness Month, we’re sharing Lisa’s story and shining a light on the invisible load caregivers carry, and why support matters.
Because caregivers shouldn’t have to carry it all alone. 💚
Read the blog: https://cmha.ca/news/the-invisible-load-of-caregiving/

The Barrie Good Food Box is beyond grateful for the stellar volunteers who join us each pack day to collaborate with providing fruit and veggies to our neighbours. They packed 601 gorgeous bags of nutrition that are ready to be picked up at 290 Cundles Rd east until 6pm today. Next order day is June 3 and pickup will be June 10. Come join this amazing buying club and receive a huge discount on produce provided by our trusted supplier, Sanfilippo Wholesale Fruit & Vegetables.
Barrie Good Food Box is a program of CMHA- Simcoe County
www.barriegoodfoodbox.com

✨Volunteer Opportunity ✨

Join Us in the Kitchen – Become a Community Cooking Facilitator!

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to share their food skills in our community cooking classes. No formal teaching experience required – just a love of food and a willingness to help others learn. We do the shopping and planning – you show up and cook!

Classes are scheduled to run on Mondays and Wednesdays around 1:00-3:00 pm (flexible) in Barrie throughout the year.

👉 Interested? Contact [email protected] or 705-331-2392 for more details or to get involved.

What an amazing day at the Wellness Fair and the grand opening of the Outdoor Market! ☀️🌿
The event brought together so many incredible community organizations, local vendors, and resources all focused on supporting the health and wellness of our community. Thank you to Mayor Nuttall and Barrie Police for joining us and helping open the day with your remarks and support.
A huge thank you as well to all of the volunteers, vendors, and community partners who helped make the event such a success. Your time, energy, and dedication truly made the day special.
So great to see our community come together for a day of connection, support, and local pride!