On May 23, 2015, hundreds of participants gathered at the Grace Hartman Amphitheatre at Bell Park and supported the Defeat Depression walk in Sudbury. Along with event sponsors, they collectively raised $17,355.52.
Defeat Depression is a mental health awareness campaign, organized by the Mood Disorders Society of Canada, which takes place across the country. Some cities or towns host a walk, while others plan events involving physical or social activities, such as runs and rides.
This year, the money raised is going to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) – Sudbury/Manitoulin branch, to support its programs and services, promotion campaigns and other future fundraising events.
“The event is about raising awareness and bringing a community together to open up a positive conversation on mental health,” said Krista MacDonald, health promotion coordinator at CMHA – Sudbury/Manitoulin in a news release.
“We can only hope that the campaign grows and helps bring together a network of people who want to see acceptance for mental illness and support local services.”