Brock University has surpassed its fundraising goal of $250,000 to support students’ mental health and well-being.

In the fall, Brock committed to improving student mental health supports with the launch of the new Student Mental Health Fund. With the announcement of this initiative, the University had also set an ambitious fundraising goal of $250,000, which was met and exceeded in less than a year.

Surpassing the goal was made possible through the generosity of the Brock University Students’ Union, Niagara Community Foundation, the Board of Trustees Impact Fund and several individual donors, including Brock alumni, faculty, staff and community members. Notably, in October, an anonymous donor recognized the need for additional mental health support and made the commitment to double the impact of funds raised up to $50,000.

“This successful fundraiser shows the strength of the Brock community to come together to support those in need, especially in the current climate of a global pandemic,” said Anna Lathrop, Vice-Provost and Associate Vice-President, Students. “The well-being and mental health of Brock students continues to be a main priority, and these funds, which will enhance our mental health services, are just one way of showing our commitment to improving the support and resources for our students.”

The fundraising campaign was launched in response to the increasing mental health needs of students, as nearly half of Brock students say they have been affected by mental health issues.

The need for increased access to mental health resources to support students in their academic success and mental well-being has been an ongoing priority for the University, especially as students navigate the shift to online learning and virtual support due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our generous donors have stepped up and these gifts will directly support and help improve services for students,” said Sonia Dupte, Director, Development and Stewardship, Advancement and External Relations. “These funds help meet the increasing demand and continue to build on Brock’s No. 1 ranking for mental health services in Canada.

“We are grateful to all of the donors in the community and for the shared importance they have placed on supporting the success of our students so they can contribute to our campus, our community and beyond.”

The funds raised for the Student Mental Health Fund will continue to enhance the supports available to students by increasing and improving services for those seeking mental health resources. Brock will be able to increase programming in response to surging needs and provide greater access to clinical support staff.

The funding will build upon the supports already in place for students, which have ranked Brock first in mental health supports among all comprehensive universities in Canada for three-consecutive years in the annual Maclean’s University Rankings.

Brock’s commitment to mental health resources is also demonstrated through its strategic plan, which outlines a commitment to offer a transformational and accessible academic and university experience.

As a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for wellness and mental health supports for students continues to significantly increase. Although the fundraising campaign has been successful, additional support is still required to meet the needs of Brock students.

To donate to the Student Mental Health Fund at Brock, visit brocku.ca/donate and select ‘Student Mental Health’ as the designation for the gift.

Additionally, Brock will once again be participating in the annual national mental health campaign, Bell Let’s Talk Day, which will take place on Thursday, Jan. 28. More details on Brock’s initiatives related to the campaign will be announced later this week.

To learn more about the many mental health resources available at Brock, visit brockmentalhealth.ca or brocku.ca/swac