November 27, 2008

FUNDING FOR BC SCHIZOPHRENIA SOCIETY

Several years ago this government cut the B.C. Schizophrenia Society’s sustainability grant in the amount of $300,000. Despite the cut, the society worked hard to continue to provide services, support and education to mental health consumers and their families. That work was largely funded by donations.

However, as the economy softens, the society is now unable to raise all the funds to fill the gap. They need $150,000 to keep this operation afloat. If funds are not forthcoming, the society may have to shut its doors in January.

Will the Minister of Health commit today to provide the necessary funds to the B.C. Schizophrenia Society so that they can continue to help families in need?

J. Kwan: Sorry, wrong. It’s the wrong briefing note that the minister is reading from.

Fred Dawe and Michelle Colussi have been volunteer board members for the B.C. Schizophrenia Society for the past 20 years. The funds that were eliminated from the society were core funding moneys. Fred tried desperately to contact the minister to set up a meeting about this issue. An October meeting turned into a November request. The November meeting was deferred till January. Well, a January meeting comes a little too late, because the society may be forced to close its doors.

Will the minister commit today to meet with Fred and Michelle, who are in the gallery today, and to help them resolve this funding crisis that was created by this government?