Provincial government investing more in youth mental health

May 10, 2024 | 4:57 PM

In partnership with CASA Mental Health, Alberta’s government is investing $148 million to support a large expansion of child and youth mental health services.

The commitment to provide $148 million over the next two years doubles the amount of funding for CASA Mental Health, which is expected to significantly expand services across the province, including with a new mental health classroom in Red Deer.

The funding includes $40 million to triple the number of CASA Mental Health Classrooms, $98 million to build and operate three, brand new live-in treatment facilities known as CASA Houses and expand services at the existing CASA House, and $10 million to expand specialty services delivered by CASA.

“This partnership with the Government of Alberta will bring services closer to Albertan children and families. The goal is to provide mental health services earlier to more children and youth to prevent treatment in hospitals and empower them to thrive,” says Bonnie Blakley, chief executive officer of CASA Mental Health.

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With help from Red Deer Youth Council

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Red Deer currently has one operating CASA Mental Health classroom at Escuela Vista Grande School and will gain an additional one in September, although the school that will host it has not yet been determined.

Each Mental Health classroom is staffed with a mental health therapist, mental health aide, and additional support staff to ensure students get the care they need to excel in their studies.

CASA is Alberta’s second-largest provider of mental health services. It offers a range of supports for young Albertans and their families including professional in-school support, live-in treatment, family support, trauma support, and more.

The CASA House live-in program, which currently only has one government-supported location in Sherwood Park, will be expanding to Calgary, Fort McMurray, and the south zone of the province over the next two years.

The organization’s Trauma Program is currently available in Edmonton and will expand to Calgary by December 2024.

Once the funding is fully implemented, an estimated 2,000 more children and youth each year may benefit from services provided by CASA Mental Health.

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by rdnewsNOW staff

Provincial government investing more in youth mental health

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