You believe in a community where everyone has the support they need to thrive. So do we. Yet, for many, that sense of belonging and support feels out of reach. As spring approaches—with its sense of renewal and hope—you have the power to help someone like Naomi find the fresh start in a caring community they deserve.
Imagine feeling lost in a new city, uncertain of where to turn, and carrying the weight of mental illness without a diagnosis or support. That was Naomi’s reality when she first arrived in Saskatoon. She longed for connection, for a place where she didn’t have to explain herself—where she could simply be.
Your gift today can make sure that Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Saskatoon (CMHA Saskatoon) continues to be that safe, welcoming space for those who need it most.
When Naomi first came to Saskatoon in 2017, she felt lost. New to the city, without an idea of what was happening with her mental health, and unsure of where to turn, she was nervous about even stepping through the doors of CMHA Saskatoon. Naomi had spent much of her life explaining herself and justifying her actions and reactions: she wasn’t weak or lazy or over emotional — she had a lot to deal with that others might not.
What she needed was a place where she didn’t have to explain, a place where she was simply understood. CMHA Saskatoon has become that place!
Your donation can give more people like Naomi that safe space to tell their story without anyone judging their words or actions.
“CMHA was a cornerstone to building a life that I wanted,” Naomi says. It was here that she found connection, support, and the freedom to navigate her mental health at her own pace.
With the help of CMHA’s programs, Naomi is building her confidence and finding her place in the world. She went through the Life Skills program, where she learned to manage daily tasks and advocate for herself. She participated in depression and anxiety support groups, finding comfort in the shared experiences of others. Through CMHA, she found opportunities to volunteer, to speak publicly about her journey, and even to write articles sharing her experiences.
“It’s another form of feeling connected,” Naomi says. “It’s not family, but it’s friendly. I can joke around. That type of environment is rare. There’s no toxicity or feeling like anyone is talking about you.”
“It’s not family, but it’s friendly. I can joke around. That type of environment is rare. There’s no toxicity or feeling like anyone is talking about you.”
Right now, mental health services are needed more than ever. People are struggling with uncertainty, stress, and isolation during yet another unprecedented time of worry and concern. Your support ensures that CMHA Saskatoon can continue to be a lifeline for those who need it most.
Without your help, some people may not get the support they need at a critical time in their journey – and that could be devastating and potentially life-threatening.
Your donation today will help save, change, and build a life – you make that much of a difference to people from all walks of life.
Today, Naomi has her own apartment, contributes to mental health advocacy, and gives back to the very place that helped her grow. But her story is just one of many. There are still so many people in Saskatoon looking for a place where they can belong, where they can heal without judgment, and where they can set their own pace in their mental health journey.