The spotlight is on the Chatham Maroons doing their part for youth mental health.
The team stars in a new video promoting the Be Safe app for mental health. It was shot in December 2023, and can be viewed on YouTube.
Be Safe was implemented within the Chatham-Kent region in May 2023 as an initiative of the Mental Health Table, a network of non-profit and health-care professionals.
“In the game of life, just like on the ice, teamwork and support are key,” Cathy DeBresser-Knowler in a media release. She is a public health educator with CK Public Health, and Table facilitator.
“That’s why we at the Mental Health Table have joined forces with the Chatham Maroons. A massive shout out to them for their immediate commitment to our mental health initiative, showcasing exceptional dedication from both players and coaching staff.”
Be Safe is a free mobile app that puts help in the hands of those who need it, when they need it. The tool enables a person in crisis to connect to local, up-to-date, mental health resources quickly and easily.
People can also use Be Safe to develop an individualized safety plan.
Kent Hamilton, Maroons assistant coach and assistant manager, said the team is proud of this community initiative.
“The Chatham Maroons have always taken pride in their community and love the fact that the community supports them. When we were approached by the Mental Health Table to help promote the Be Safe app, without delay we agreed to be part of this amazing opportunity,” he said.
Be Safe is available at no cost across Apple and Android devices and is easy to use. It can be downloaded at besafeapp.ca.
Funding for Be Safe in Chatham-Kent is provided by Women United, an affinity group of the United Way of Chatham-Kent.
