Parents in rural Southeastern New Brunswick now have a new resource to help support their children’s mental health.
The South-East Social Pediatrics Centre (CPSSE) has launched a free, in-person education program for families of school-aged children, including those with neurodevelopmental conditions.
The initiative focuses on respectful communication, trauma-informed parenting and mental health literacy.
“This responds to a real and growing need,” said Line Rioux, coordinator of CPSSE.
“Families in rural areas often face barriers to accessing support, leaving many parents feeling overwhelmed and isolated.”
The program is funded through a $100,000 donation from Grocery Foundation Atlantic and the CHU Dumont Foundation.
Gilles Allain, CEO of the CHU Dumont Foundation, said the funding helps address a critical gap.
“We’re proud to support a program that meets families where they are,” Allain said.
Vitalité Health Network says the donation will help expand CPSSE’s reach and improve access to mental health support in underserved areas.
The contribution is expected to have a lasting impact on families in the region, according to Sébastien Lagacé, assistant vice-president of addiction and mental health.
Grocery Foundation Atlantic, represented by Sobeys director of pricing strategy Laken Pitts, emphasized the importance of community-driven fundraising efforts.
Each year, the grocery sector collaborates to support initiatives that benefit children and youth across Atlantic Canada, including programs like the one now offered by CPSSE
