Wirth Foundation

The Wirth Foundation is a Canadian nonprofit organization registered under the business number 739672137RR0001, dedicated to increasing accessibility to mental health services by providing free counselling and therapy for individuals who cannot afford them. Established as a registered charity in 2023, the foundation focuses on addressing and preventing mental health challenges by removing financial barriers and stigma associated with seeking professional support[2][3][4].

History and Background

The foundation was inspired by the personal loss of Jakob and Philipp, who died by suicide without having received professional mental health support due to stigma and affordability issues. Motivated by these tragic events, the Wirth Counselling Program began in 2019 as a fund to offer free counselling sessions to those in need, specifically targeting first-time applicants with low income. Since its inception, the program has facilitated thousands of hours of therapy for individuals who otherwise would have been unable to access care[3].

In 2018, Ben Wirth founded Wirth Hats to generate funds and raise awareness about mental health. This initiative contributed to the creation and growth of the Wirth Counselling Fund. Building on this momentum, the Wirth Foundation was formally registered as a charity in 2023, expanding the scope and reach of its mental health support services[3].

Mission and Activities

The primary mission of the Wirth Foundation is to provide and expand access to mental health services for individuals and families affected by mental health issues who face financial challenges. The foundation offers up to eight free counselling sessions per applicant, prioritizing low-income individuals and those seeking help for the first time[1][2].

Funding is raised through the sale of Wirth Hats, donations, and events, which allow the foundation to sponsor free counselling sessions. Each donation of approximately $90 supports one 60-minute counselling session. The foundation aims to remove the stigma and financial obstacles related to mental health treatment to save lives and improve emotional well-being[4][5].

Impact

As of recent reports, the Wirth Foundation has sponsored over 6,500 counselling sessions, with a goal to sponsor 10,000 sessions in the near future. The foundation’s outreach has made a significant impact by reducing barriers to care and supporting mental health for those who might otherwise go untreated due to cost or stigma[4][5].

The Wirth Foundation's commitment to accessible mental health care represents a vital resource in Canada’s mental health landscape, striving to ensure that all individuals, regardless of financial means, have the opportunity to receive the help they need.