The Youth Action Team – photo 250News

Prince George, B.C. – Raising awareness around mental health issues and the resources available to those who may need them is the inspiration behind a block party this Wednesday.

It’s being put on by the newly launched Prince George Youth Action Team and it will take place next to Hadih House between Quince and Pine Streets from 4-7 p.m.

“The Youth Action Team is part of the Child and Youth Mental Health Substance Use Collaborative and it’s an initiative that’s done by the Province of B.C. and the Doctors of B.C.,” says team lead Shari Wallace. “And the purpose of youth action teams and local action teams is to increase people’s access to mental health services.”

“Mental health is a topic that affects everyone therefore everybody is welcome,” adds action team member Jenessa Ellis.

The event will include food, music, a bouncy castle, information tables, activities that promote mental health and more.

“There is a street hockey game that’s happening also,” says Wallace. “Myles Mattila from the Cariboo Cougars will be here to play hockey with everybody. Myles has donated a hockey jersey that’s been signed by Jordin Tootoo and is giving it away as one of the prizes.”

Following the party, she says the Youth Action Team will continue on with its work through the end of March, 2017.