youth mental health research funding announcement

On April 11, 2024, after a rigorous selection process, Cassie + Friends and Brain Canada have selected two life-transforming and innovative research projects to receive a combined total of $480,00 in funding dedicated to transforming the lives and mental wellness of children and teens impacted by juvenile arthritis and other rheumatic diseases.

We are proud to congratulate Dr. Bobbi Berard (London Health Science Centre) and Dr. Mark Ferro (University of Waterloo) for their two exceptional projects, each representing a pivotal step forward in addressing the mental health challenges faced by young people battling rheumatic diseases. C+F Youth Leader, Alison Legge is one of those individuals:

“As someone living with a rheumatic disease diagnosed in childhood, there was no guidebook on how to navigate the uncertainty surrounding my illness and the toll it would take on my mental health… arthritis is so much more than physical pain.”

This initiative would not have been possible without the generous support of our donors as well as the dedication of our volunteers, leaders and, of course, Team Cassie + Friends. Together, we’re driving meaningful change and making a lasting impact on the lives of children, teens and their families across Canada and beyond.

Stay tuned for updates on the progress of these transformative projects as we continue to prioritize mental wellness in the juvenile arthritis community.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact Jennifer Wilson, Executive Director, Cassie + Friends at jennifer@cassieandfriends.ca or 604.617.1382

This announcement follows a major $500 million Youth Mental Health funding investment as a part of the Federal Government’s 2024 Budget aimed at helping young Canadians access mental health care, reducing wait times and providing more options. You can read more about their new fund here.