Strathmore Wheatland Addictions Team (SWAT) is hosting a community barbeque on May 13 from 11:30 am -2:00pm in support of Mental Health Week.
The Strathmore and Wheatland Addictions Team is a coalition that was created to build awareness of substance abuse for residents of Strathmore and Wheatland County. It is made-up of many organizations in Strathmore and Wheatland County, and each organization brings different perspectives to the table to tackle addictions.
Community partner for Strathmore and Wheatland Addiction Team Crystal Gaudet explains that the goal for the barbeque to is raise awareness about mental health and the stigma behind it.
“The goal of the BBQ was to bring the community together and provide resources and information on mental health and addictions.”
SWAT invited many organizations and businesses and services to set up a table and offer information and resources to attendees.” We wanted to bring the community together to let them know there are places they can turn if they themselves or someone they love is suffering with a mental illness.”
Along with the various organizations that are there, there will be a pharmacist from Strathmore Value Drug Mart that will be providing free Naloxone kits. These kits are used If you suspect somebody is having a drug overdose.
SWAT is not actively fundraising but as Gaudet explains, they have received some donations from the community in terms of cash gift cards, prize items, and food supplies. Any donations can be brought down to Strathmore FCSS or Wheatland FCSS.
Gaudet says that if you or a loved one is struggling with mental health and addictions its best to talk with your doctor about options. "You can also call the Strathmore Mental Health and Addictions Clinic at 403-361-7277”
Other resources can be found by calling Health Link at 811. The Mental Health Helpline is 1-877-303-2642 and the Addiction Helpline is 1-866-332-2322.
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Sat, Apr 27, 2:00 PM
