EveryMind’s Annual Evening of Hope Gala Raises $62,205 for Child and Youth Mental Health Services in Peel

On Saturday, November 19, EveryMind held its annual Evening of Hope Gala after a two-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Presented by Bell, the sold-out event raised $62,205 in support of EveryMind’s high-quality, free and confidential mental health services for children, youth and their families in Peel. Other sponsors included Holman, Kotak Personal Injury Law, King Masonry Yard, Peel Police Services Board, Britacan, RBC, and Peel Elementary Teachers’ Local.

CEO Ceri Harnden began the night with words of welcome and gratitude for the support. Remarking on the sharp increase for services during the pandemic, Harnden said, “Your support has always been important to us. This evening, it is more important than ever as we mobilize additional efforts as an organization, and a community, to tackle the toll that the pandemic has had on the mental health of too many children and young people. Our kids are worth it. They are our future!”

A parent, whose family was helped by EveryMind’s 24/7 Crisis Support and Wraparound Services, brought the crowd to their feet as she shared her story of resilience and courage and lauded our dedicated, compassionate staff, whose positive impact at a critical time helped the family through their struggles.

Michael Tibollo, Ontario’s Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, shared a video message of support.

Guests also had the opportunity to participate in a variety of philanthropic activities with dollars matched by Scotiabank, and a silent auction, which included an air travel package generously donated by the Air Canada Foundation, among many exciting prizes.

Sean Leathong, a video journalist for CTV News Toronto, ably guided guests through the fun-filled, magic-themed night as the event’s special guest Master of Ceremonies.

This was the first gala since the amalgamation of Peel Children’s Centre and Nexus Youth Services created the rebranded EveryMind, which is the legislated lead agency in Peel for Ministry-of-Health-funded child and youth mental health services.  EveryMind is one of Ontario’s largest service providers of child and youth mental health services, serving over 5,500 young people from the ages of 0 to 25 and their families in 2021-22.