VJH Foundation Makes Landmark Investment in Youth Mental Health
$500,000 Investment Boosts CMHA Vernon’s Campaign for Foundry North Okanagan
VJH Foundation made a landmark $500,000 investment in Foundry North Okanagan, a new centre where youth aged 12–24 will access barrier‑free mental health, substance use and wellness services.
VERNON, BC — On May 1, 2026, Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation announced a landmark investment of $500,000 to Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District to support the capital campaign for Foundry North Okanagan, a new centre that will offer barrier-free mental health, substance use and wellness services for youth aged 12 to 24.
“This year, our Board affirmed a strategic commitment to work with other organizations and find creative solutions to address the most pressing gaps in healthcare,” says Kate McBrearty, executive director of VJH Foundation. “We know that the needs of youth are escalating. That’s why we’ve chosen to invest in Foundry North Okanagan, to ensure timely care is available for youth when they need it most.”
Seventy percent of mental health issues begin before age 18, yet youth often face barriers when seeking mental health support. Foundry North Okanagan will reduce barriers by bringing together mental health counselling, substance use health supports, primary care, peer support, and wraparound services in one location, free of charge and without the need for referral, decreasing stigma and improving timely access to care.
This integrated approach will provide early intervention, crisis diversion, and community-based care, reducing the pressure on acute services at Vernon Jubilee Hospital and improving health outcomes across the North Okanagan.
This investment in Foundry North Okanagan builds on VJH Foundation’s collaboration with Interior Health and the VJH Auxiliary to open a specialized Youth Mental Health Pod at Vernon Jubilee Hospital last fall.
“These critical projects will work together to provide a robust continuum of mental healthcare for youth in our region,” comments McBrearty. “Our Foundation is honoured to partner with CMHA Vernon to bring this project to life.”
Foundry North Okanagan will be located on 29th Avenue in Vernon. Groundbreaking is slated for this spring, with completion anticipated in the early summer of 2027. The project cost is $8.5 million, and now with the VJH Foundation investment, CMHA Vernon has raised over $4.9 million.
“This is a powerful example of what’s possible when our community comes together around a shared vision,” says Julia Payson, executive director, CMHA Vernon & District. “By partnering with VJH Foundation and others, we are building an integrated, accessible system of care that will support young people and families in a meaningful and lasting way. We are deeply grateful to be part of a collaborative effort that brings hope and support closer to those who need it most.”
“This year, our Board affirmed a strategic commitment to work with other organizations and find creative solutions to address the most pressing gaps in healthcare.
We know that the needs of youth are escalating. That’s why we’ve chosen to invest in Foundry North Okanagan, to ensure timely care is available for youth when they need it most.”