The Vernon Jubilee Hospital (VJH) Foundation announced a landmark investment of $500,000 to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Vernon and District to support the capital campaign for Foundry North Okanagan.
The Foundry is a new centre designed to offer barrier-free mental health, substance-use and wellness services for youth aged 12 to 24.
“This year, our board affirmed a strategic commitment to work with other organizations and find creative solutions to address the most pressing gaps in health care,” Kate McBrearty, executive director of the VJH Foundation, said. “We know that the needs of youth are escalating. That’s why we’ve chosen to invest in Foundry North Okanagan, to ensure timely care is available for youth when they need it most.”
In a statement, the VJH Foundation said 70 per cent of mental health issues begin before age 18, yet youth often face barriers when seeking support.
“Foundry North Okanagan will reduce barriers by bringing together mental health counselling, substance-use health supports, primary care, peer support, and wraparound services in one location, free of charge and without the need for referral, decreasing stigma and improving timely access to care,” the statement read.
This investment builds on the VJH Foundation’s collaboration with Interior Health and the VJH Auxiliary to open a specialized youth mental health pod at Vernon Jubilee Hospital in the fall of 2025.
“These critical projects will work together to provide a robust continuum of mental health care for youth in our region,” McBrearty said. “Our foundation is honoured to partner with CMHA Vernon to bring this project to life.”
Foundry North Okanagan will be located on 29th Avenue in Vernon. Groundbreaking is scheduled for this spring, with completion anticipated in early summer 2027.
“This is a powerful example of what’s possible when our community comes together around a shared vision,” Julia Payson, executive director of CMHA Vernon and District, said. “By partnering with VJH Foundation and others, we are building an integrated, accessible system of care that will support young people and families in a meaningful and lasting way.”
She said the organization is grateful to be part of a collaborative effort that “brings hope and support closer to those who need it most.”
The project cost is $8.5 million. With the VJH Foundation investment, CMHA Vernon has raised more than $4.9 million.
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