In a heartwarming move, the Harcourts Foundation has stepped up its commitment to community wellbeing by donating a generous $20,000 to support vital mental health education for young people. This significant contribution will bolster the “Backpack for Life” program, a transformative initiative launched by the registered charity It's Okay Not to Be Okay, tailored specifically for Grade 5 and 6 primary school students.

Founded in 2016, after the tragic loss of three sisters’ brother to suicide, It's Okay Not to Be Okay has become a beacon of hope in advocating for mental health awareness, grief support, and suicide prevention. The charity's efforts are particularly timely, as data shows that 75% of mental illnesses develop before the age of 25. Hence, early intervention in schools is crucial.

The “Backpack for Life” workshops aim to create a safe space for children to explore their emotions and gain essential coping skills. Each one-hour session delves into vital topics such as understanding mental health, recognizing feelings, and identifying effective tools to navigate life's challenges. With interactive activities and open discussions, the program encourages kids to engage with their emotions in a supportive environment, making mental health education both fun and informative.

Sharon Kupsch, the Harcourts Foundation Victoria Ambassador, shared her enthusiasm after witnessing a workshop firsthand. “It was an honor and a privilege to present the Foundation's cheque for the incredible work they do,” she remarked. “Backpack for Life is such a brilliant concept, and seeing the children embrace it was truly rewarding.”

Kaitlyn Schepisi from Harcourts Carrum Downs also voiced her strong support for the initiative, remarking on the pervasive impact of mental health issues in today's society. “Mental health is an issue that touches all aspects of life—our families, friends, co-workers, and clients alike,” she stated. “Sometimes, we just need to hear that ‘It's OK not to be OK.’ Supporting It's Okay Not to Be Okay is one of the most important causes I can think of.”

With this generous funding, the Backpack for Life program will reach even more children, equipping them with the resilience and awareness necessary for navigating their mental health journeys. The Harcourts Foundation continues to lead the charge in fostering community wellbeing by backing initiatives that yield lasting positive impacts.

As the conversation around mental health grows louder, this partnership exemplifies how empowering our youth can create a brighter, healthier future for all. Don’t miss the chance to get involved; the future of our children’s mental health depends on it!