On Thursday, May 30, more than 150 members of the Niagara community gathered at the Branscombe Mental Health Centre and cut the entrance ribbon to the new Mountainview Natural Playground & Healing Garden.
This is the first Natural Playground & Healing Garden, built at a children’s mental health facility in Canada.
Calling it a brain sanctuary, Pathstone CEO Shaun Baylis spoke about the sensory experience the outdoor space will provide for Pathstone’s clients. “Kids will rediscover the harmony found in being part of nature and will experience natural mindfulness that comes from digging into the earth, touching water and smelling trees and flowers.
The idea for the space came about after seeing repeated research validating the health benefits that come with spending time in a natural setting, especially among children with mental health issues, which is the core of Pathstone’s services. “This type of reconnecting play will increase energy, improve focus and boost serotonin and endorphin levels of our kids says Baylis.”
While the space will be used to improve the mental wellness of our clients from active therapy outside to being able to play before or after therapy, we are proud to have partnered with the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority to create monthly outdoor education sessions, to teach children more about our natural world.” Kim Rossi – Director of Philanthropy & PR – Pathstone Foundation
About Pathstone Mental Health
Pathstone Mental Health is a community-based organization whose mission it is to provide innovative and effective treatment for all children in Niagara diagnosed with mental health issues. Thanks to support from our donors and volunteers, we are able to address and meet the needs of children and their families as the only accredited provider of mental health services for children in Niagara. Crisis Services are offered 24/7 by calling 1-800-263-4944.
Media Contact – Questions / Interviews;
Kim Rossi – Director of Philanthropy & Public Relations -Pathstone Foundation
289.969.8342 e. krossi@pathstone.ca
Photo credit to Bill Augerman Photography