Cameco Mental Health Fund supports University of Saskatchewan students

Grant will support training for students and wider campus community to assist those struggling with mental health issues

By Carlee Snow

On December 16th, 2019, Cameco announced the recipients of the Cameco Fund for Mental Health. The company awarded grants totalling $400,000 to 21 projects benefitting 12 different Saskatchewan communities. Projects aimed at education and training and direct support for people struggling with mental health and addictions will benefit.

“We are so grateful for Cameco’s support of mental health initiatives within our community,” said Tracy Spencer, manager of student affairs and outreach at USask. “This support will enhance the mental health and harm reduction educational offerings provided to our students, staff, and instructors at the University of Saskatchewan.”

University of Saskatchewan (USask) Student Affairs was awarded $24,800 from the fund to improve the services and accessibility of two of their programs, Mental Health First Aid and Livingworks safeTALK. Both programs provide information and workshops for students relating to mental health and suicide prevention.

“Through this important work, guided by the University of Saskatchewan wellness strategy, we can continue to create and promote an environment that supports the overall health and well-being of our community members,” said Spencer.

The grant from Cameco will be used to help train students on Mental Health First Aid and/or Livingworks safeTALK through offering workshops that provide individuals with the ability to identify, intervene, and provide care to people in need.

Providing workshops at a subsidized cost will increase their accessibility and provides more students with the training necessary to potentially save a life. Spencer explained that being able to provide students with the knowledge and skills to assist themselves, friends, colleagues, and loved ones who are struggling with mental illness is incredibly valuable. “These workshops will provide students with the knowledge and skills to promote and support wellness at the university as they complete their degrees as well as in their future workplaces.”

To learn more about these workshops and to sign up please visit usask.ca/stayhealthy or check out the student’s wellness calendar at https://wellness.usask.ca/calendar/index.php. You can contact Student Affairs and Outreach at (306) 966-5757 or email at student.outreach@usask.ca for questions.