Canadian Mental Health Association Newfoundland Division

The Canadian Mental Health Association Newfoundland Division (CMHA-NL) is a voluntary, non-profit, charitable organization established in 1964. It operates as the Newfoundland and Labrador branch of the national Canadian Mental Health Association, with the business registration number 106863780RR0001. The organization is dedicated to promoting a better understanding of mental health and mental illness within the province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Mission and Vision

CMHA-NL’s mission is to facilitate access to the necessary resources that individuals require to maintain and improve their mental health and community integration, build resilience, and support recovery from mental illness. This is achieved through capacity building, policy influence, service provision, and resource development aimed at empowering individuals and communities throughout the province.

Programs and Services

The organization offers a broad range of mental health programs and educational initiatives, targeting various groups including individuals, families, caregivers, professionals, workplaces, students, children, and youth. Significant programs include:

• Workplace Mental Health Training: Provides mental health training sessions to promote positive mental health practices in workplaces.
• General Mental Health Education: Offers education sessions for individuals, schools, and community groups.
• Child and Youth Education: Focuses on mental health training directed primarily at children and youth, often delivered through school programs.
• Specialized Initiatives: Programs such as "Kids Have Stress Too!" and events like Mental Health First Aid and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST).

These programs are designed to enhance public awareness, reduce stigma, and improve mental health outcomes across Newfoundland and Labrador.

Structure and Governance

CMHA-NL is governed by a volunteer board of directors representing various regions of the province. The organization’s head office is located in St. John's, with additional regional offices in Grand Falls-Windsor and Stephenville to serve central and western Newfoundland respectively.

Impact and Community Role

As part of a nationwide network with over 330 community locations, CMHA-NL plays a critical role in promoting mental wellness and recovery. It supports individuals with lived experience of mental illness, their families, and caregivers by facilitating access to programs and advocacy resources that foster mental health resilience and social inclusion.

Charitable Status

CMHA-NL is a registered charity recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency, enabling it to receive tax-deductible donations that support its programs and community initiatives.

This summary highlights the key aspects of the Canadian Mental Health Association Newfoundland Division’s work in advancing mental health awareness, education, and support services across the province of Newfoundland and Labrador[1][2][4][5].