Shining a Light on Mental Health at The Salvation Army Northridge Church

by chrismcgregor
Categories: Divisional News
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With cases of anxiety, COVID-related trauma and depression on the increase The Salvation Army Northridge Community Church wants to improve access to mental health services in York Region.

On September 21, the inaugural Mental Health Gala at The Salvation Army Northridge Community Church in Aurora will shine a light on the need for mental health and wellness supports in the community. The event will fund the hiring of interns and counselling staff at Northridge Community Church to meet a growing demand.

Currently, two psychotherapists, Vicki Nishihama and Gabriella Meleca, work with Northridge Community Church to offer individual and group counselling sessions. In 2022, 60 clients attended weekly group sessions, and more than 1,000 individual counselling hours were provided.

“The Gala will encourage resiliency and strength, provide an opportunity to connect, have fun, engage and learn about the issues related to mental health,” says Angela Covert, Salvation Army Northridge Community Church Community Relations Representative.

The September 21 gala runs from 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm and will feature a spectacular evening of:

  • Dancing to live music from George St. Kitts and Soul-Town
  • Inspiring speeches by mental health advocates
  • Food and non-alcoholic drinks donated by local vendors
  • Live and online auction with artwork, sports memorabilia, an Airbnb stay and a lunch for two with Aurora Mayor Tom Mrakas

“Mental health concerns have grown in the last three years, and it is essential that we grow this program to meet the desperate needs of our community,” Angela says.

Gala guest speaker Robyn Darker will share how participating in the Northridge Community Church’s Monday night emotional support group put her on a path to living her best life. Several local dignitaries are expected to attend, and Christina Pearo, host of Living Local on Yes TV, is the event’s emcee.

In addition to the Monday night drop-in session, Northridge also offers the ‘Becoming Whole’ program, a weekly online group providing support and encouragement through Bible study to heal, grow and become more whole in Christ.

Skills Training in Affect and Interpersonal Regulation (STAIR) is an 11-week therapy program for people struggling with the lasting effects of trauma. STAIR helps participants by teaching skills that improve coping with emotions and navigating interpersonal relationships.

To purchase gala tickets, or to learn more about these essential programs and services at Salvation Army Northridge Community Church, please visit www.northridgesa.com.