DC receives $184,000 in funding to launch “Better Together Series” mental health initiative

Durham College (DC) is pleased to receive $184,000 in funding as part of the Ontario government’s Roadmap to Wellness initiative, which will support eight mental health-related projects at select colleges, universities and Indigenous Institutes.

In partnership with Ontario Tech University and Ontario Shores, the funding will be used by the Campus Health and Wellness Centre to support students from both institutions through the “Better Together Series” – a collaboration of creative workshops, volunteer opportunities and informational sessions supporting a multi-dimensional framework to address the social Isolation and grief resulting from COVID-19.

“Durham College is excited to receive these funds and work with our partners Ontario Tech University and Ontario Shores to foster social connectedness and mitigate grief among students from our campus,” says Darlene Heslop, director, Campus Health and Wellness Centre. “Funding for projects like this is incredibly important as we look to support students during these challenging times.”

Grounded in identity, shared interest, meaningful relationships, involvement and belongingness, the “Better Together Series” will employ action-based activities and integrate mental health education to foster social growth, resilience and promote the wellness of students on- and off-campus through the Campus Health and Wellness Centre.

The “Better Together Series” launched in May, and is available to the general student population, while being mindful of the unique vulnerabilities of 2SLGBTQ+, Indigenous and other multicultural students who experience mental health disparities which may be exacerbated by COVID-19 restrictions.

For more information, please contact the Campus Health and Wellness Centre at cwhc@durhamcollege.ca.