With children and youth scrambling to access mental health services, places like Foundry in Prince George are still offering walk-in services in addition to virtual visits during the pandemic.
Manager, Carmen De Menech told MyPGNow.com the younger demographic between the ages of 12 and 24 are still craving face-to-face contact.
“There is a need to connect in general. People’s natural supports aren’t necessarily as available to them whether that is a family, community, recreational, or even that psychosocial support.”
“We continue to see a lot of need and demand for in-person services. A lot of people are really looking to connect in person but our virtual services have also increased and I know that Foundry Central is growing and expanding.”
De Menech mentioned that keeping that in-person connection available remains key.
“Part of it is recognizing that not everyone has access to a computer or private space to be able to reach out for supports particularly with mental health, it’s a very private, personal need.”
She added there was a period in the early days of the pandemic where activity became quiet.
“I think it was just a matter of people trying to prioritize their mental and physical health and well-being,” added De Menech.
Foundry remains in constant contact with their partners and collective support agencies to provide as many services as possible.
“The demographic that we serve allows us to be more connected with some of our other youth services as a whole and I think we are doing our best to provide as much service as possible for everyone,” said De Menech.
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