For Community, by Community: Introducing HOPE: Healing, Outreach, Promotion, Education

When it comes to suicide prevention and life promotion, our community has a powerful resource: HOPE. More than a word, Hope is a collaborative initiative led by a steering committee of local leaders and supported by a Community Coordinator. Guided by the proven Roots of Hope framework, this initiative is working to foster resilience, connection, and life-affirming change in our region.

HOPE stands for:

Healing – supporting those with lived experience.
Outreach – guiding our services and resources supporting individuals currently navigating thoughts of suicide.
Promotion – honouring the life-affirming perspectives held by Indigenous communities.
Education – offering continued learning and awareness across the Prairie Mountain Health region.

Together, these pillars create a strong, community-led movement. Guided by the Roots of Hope framework, the Hope initiative works to reduce stigma, build resilience, and support life at every stage.

Roots of Hope is a community-led suicide prevention and life promotion model being used across Canada. Developed by the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), it provides a flexible, evidence-informed framework for communities to build local suicide prevention strategies.

The goal of Roots of Hope is to reduce the impact of suicide by addressing stigma, increasing awareness about mental illness, and promoting connected, supportive communities.

This made-in-Canada model was informed by global research and expert consultation and is adaptable to any community setting. It is structured around five pillars of action and thirteen guiding principles:

Five Pillars of Action

Specialized Supports
Training and Networks
Means Safety
Public Awareness
Research and Evaluation

Thirteen Guiding Principles

Comprehensive
Collaboration and Coordination
Culturally Appropriate
Recovery-Oriented
Evidence-Informed
Measurement and Evaluation
Lived Experience
Flexible
Strengths-Based
Spanning the Continuum
Community-Centred
Sustainable
Innovative

In 2024, the Province of Manitoba adopted the Roots of Hope framework, providing funding to each health authority to support implementation. Prairie Mountain Health created a steering committee, community assessments were initiated, and Kelly Lewis joined as Community Coordinator to lead this work in January 2025.

We are now working to embed the Roots of Hope model within existing networks and committees, as well as guide future goals in suicide prevention and life promotion throughout the region.

Current Groups Involved

SPIN (Suicide Prevention Implementation Network) – Regional
Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Committee – Regional
Westman Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Association – Local

If you’re interested in being involved in the HOPE initiative and adopting the Roots of Hope model in your community, want to learn more, or would like to connect with others involved in suicide prevention and life promotion, please reach out to:

Kelly Lewis
Hope Community Coordinator
[email protected]

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue the rollout of HOPE across the Prairie Mountain Health region.

September is World Suicide Prevention Month. In recognition of this important month, the regional groups SPIN and MWSPC will be hosting events and activities on Wednesday, September 10th across the region. If you are interested in participating or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Dauphin Suicide Prevention Walk on September 10.

Swan River Suicide Prevention Walk on September 10.

World Suicide Prevention Day | September 10

Blue background with yellow and orange ribbon for suicide prevention.

SPIN (Suicide Prevention Implementation Network) Honours World Suicide Prevention Day

Each year on September 10th, people in more than 80 countries around the world unite to recognize World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), an initiative led by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP). This global day of awareness is dedicated to reducing stigma, raising understanding, and inspiring action to prevent suicide.

The theme for WSPD 2024–2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide.” This theme highlights the urgent need to shift from silence and stigma, toward openness, understanding, and support. Changing the narrative requires systemic change—and together, communities can foster hope, connection, and safety for all.

“Suicide is a complex global health issue, but it is preventable,” says Sean Krausert, Executive Director of the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP). “Every year, more than 700,000 people die by suicide worldwide, and countless others are deeply affected. By changing the narrative, we can create a culture where conversations about suicide and mental health are safe, supported, and lifesaving.”

Local Events in Brandon, Manitoba

In recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day, SPIN invites the community to join several events:

Free safeTALK Training – Tuesday, September 9th, 2025 | 6:00–9:00 PM
Location: Brandon University- Health Studies Building- North Entrance@ 18^th & Princess Ave. Pre-registration required by email: [email protected].
safeTALK is a suicide alertness training program that teaches participants to recognize signs of suicide and how to connect individuals to life-saving resources.

Community Recognition – Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 | 11:30 AM–1:00 PM Location: A.R. McDiarmid Civic Complex, Cultural Room – 638 Princess Ave.
Join us as we recognize individuals who are making our community suicide-safer. A light lunch and community resources will be available.

Ribbon Tying Ceremony & Vigil – Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 | 7:00 PM
Starting at Errol Black Park & 1st Street Bridge.
This ceremony honours those lost to suicide and offers a space for healing. The evening will include hot chocolate, therapy dogs, support, and resources for attendees.

To close the day, both national and local participants are invited to join a global tradition: placing a lit candle in a window at 8:00 PM in their time zone to “Light a Flame of Hope” in remembrance of lives lost and in solidarity with those struggling.

CASP National Virtual Event: September 10, 2025 – 1:00-2:30 CST (Register online at World Suicide Prevention Day – Canadian Association For Suicide Prevention)

Local Events in Dauphin, Manitoba

Community Awareness Walk – September 10 at noon (12-1pm). Vermillion Park (214 2nd Ave. NW) Dauphin. Free Hot Dogs for attendees. Join the Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Committee for a community walk to raise awareness about suicide prevention. Information and materials to engage in personal awareness activities will be provided.
Chalk The Walk – Use chalk to help us beautify our community with images & messages of hope, resilience, suicide awareness & prevention. Decorate your walkway to inspire others. Look at the images with someone. Chat about Mental Wellness. FREE chalk available at Dauphin Community Health Office, Dauphin Library and Primary Care Outreach Clinic (PCOC).

Local Events in Swan River, Manitoba

Community Awareness Walk – September 10 at noon (12-1pm). Co-op Grocery Store Parking Lot (811 Main Street) Swan River. Join the Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Committee for a community walk to raise awareness about suicide prevention. Information and materials to engage in personal awareness activities will be provided.

The World Health Organization emphasizes that suicide is preventable with timely, evidence-based, and often low-cost interventions. Strengthening support networks, reducing stigma, and fostering open conversations about mental health are key to saving lives.

If you are struggling or concerned about someone else’s suicidal thoughts, do not hesitate to reach out for help.

Contact the Manitoba Suicide Prevention and Support Line at 1-877-435-7170, Or Simply dial or text 988- a crisis line available 24 hours per day. A trained crisis worker will listen to you and direct you to needed resources.

PMH Resources- Contact Westman Crisis Services at 204-725-4411 or 1-888-379-7699 in the Brandon Area or 1-866-332-3030 for PMH-North- Call 911 or contact a local hospital or health office.

Prairie Mountain Health- North Mental Wellness and Crisis Resources

Prairie Mountain Health- Mental health: child, adult, and senior’s mental health
Prairie Mountain Health- workshops, training, and clinics
Canadian Mental Health Association- CMHA Swan Valley – Mental Health for All
Hope for Wellness Helpline- Crisis support available for Indigenous people
Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba- programming, peer support, and resources
Peer Connections Manitoba- Peer Connections Manitoba – Your Connection to Wellness (peerconnectionsmb.ca)
Kids help phone- youth crisis support and skill building resource

PROVINCIAL CRISIS RESOURCES

Manitoba Suicide Line	1-877-435-7170
Sexual Assault Crisis Line	1-888-292-7565
Klinic Crisis Line	1-866-367-3276
Manitoba Farm & Rural Stress Line	1-888-322-3019
Manitoba Addictions Help Line	1-855-662-6605
Kids Help Phone	1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
First Nations & Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line	1-855-242-3310
Reason to Live	reasontolive.ca

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Day |September 9

Easy Mocktails: Berry Indulgence
Mocktails are a fun and refreshing way to enjoy a special drink—without alcohol. You might already have the ingredients at home!
– Strawberries or raspberries
– ¼ cup ginger ale or sprite
– ¼ cup orange or pineapple juice
– ½ cup apple juice
Instructions:
Blend all ingredients for several seconds.
Pour into two large fancy glasses and garnish with a berry.
Enjoy your alcohol-free treat!

Each year on the 9th day of the 9th month, people across the world recognize International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day. This date highlights the importance of everyone supporting a health pregnancy over the 9 months, including it being alcohol free. #EveryonePlaysAPart

FASD is a diagnostic term for a range of lifelong physical, emotional, and developmental effects caused by alcohol exposure before birth. This can occur before the pregnancy is known. Approximately 4% of Canadians are affected by FASD.

FASD Support in Manitoba

Manitoba FASD Network

All diagnostic assessments for children and youth (under age 18) in Manitoba are coordinated through the Manitoba FASD Centre and the Manitoba FASD Network.

If a child or youth was exposed to alcohol during pregnancy and has developmental or behavioral concerns, anyone can make a referral.

Contact Prairie Mountain Health FASD Diagnostic Coordinators:

Dauphin: 204-622-6223
Brandon: 204-578-2487

Life’s Journey Inc.

Life’s Journey is a not-for-profit agency supporting individuals with neurodevelopment and co-occurring disorders. Life’s Journey helps people with diverse abilities living in Manitoba. Life’s Journey includes traditional Indigenous healing as a significant component of their clinical services.

This agency strives to provide clinically informed, culturally relevant, wellness oriented, relationship and strengths-based services.

Westman Services is located in Brandon and provides services to individuals eligible for funding through Community Living Disability Services. Individualized services include:

outreach support and mentorship
family support
supported independent living
cluster housing
homeshare (foster)
shift-staffed residences
day program

Westman Services offers various clinical services, including psychology, occupational therapy, addiction support, and access to a Nurse Practitioner. All services are voluntary.

The Rural Connections program provides individualized services for transitional youth and adults impacted by FASD and ineligible for other government support programs. Individuals must be ineligible for funding through Community Living Disability Services, Provincial Alternative Support Services and Community Mental Health. The program is available within the Brandon and Steinbach regions. Rural Connections offers outreach support and mentorship.

For more information on Life’s Journey, Westman Services or the Rural Connections Program call 204-772-1591.

FASD Coalitions

Brandon and Area FASD Coalitions – If you are interested in joining the Brandon and Area FASD Coalition, please call 204-578-2487.

Manitoba FASD Coalitions – For more information visit the Manitoba FASD Coalition

International Overdose Awareness Day – IOAD

This International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), we come together as one big family to take action on overdose.

IOAD is observed on August 31 each year, with events taking place throughout the week in more than 40 countries.

The overdose crisis doesn’t just shatter our families, it fractures our communities.

The losses go deeper than one person, one family or one neighborhood. They ripple out into classrooms, workplaces and the spaces we all share. They cross borders between cities, states and nations.

But in a time when people are searching for connection and safety, overdose also reminds us that our lives are deeply intertwined.

We often instinctively protect our own – our children, our parents, our siblings. We believe in second chances for our loved ones but struggle to extend that same compassion to others. But what if we saw each other as one big family, bound not just by blood, but by shared experiences, responsibility and commitment to each other?

This International Overdose Awareness Day let’s imagine a new meaning of what family can be. A family driven by hope, love and action. We are one big family – not just because we share in the pain of loss, but because we share in the power to change what comes next.

This August 31, we move beyond awareness. We organize, we show up, and we take action. Because no one should carry this grief alone. Every story shared, every voice raised and every step we take brings us closer to a future free from overdose.

“International Overdose Awareness Day is a chance to come together with other people in the community who understand what it means to lose someone to overdose.”

“But it’s also about pushing for change, locally and globally. We invite everyone in the community to attend our events to help our campaign for a world without overdose.”

Overdose Awareness Walk followed by an afternoon of fund and education.
When: Sunday, Aug. 31, 1-3
Where: Princess Park, Brandon, MB.

Vigil to Honour Those Gone Too Soon.
Bring their picture, song or poem
When: Sunday, Aug. 31^st, 6-7pm
Where: Dinsdale Park

Sweat Lodge Ceremony
When: Monday, August 25 at 11:00 AM
Where: WSFN Sweat Lodge Site located North West of Novra (North of Swan River)

See overdoseday.com for a full list of IOAD events and to learn more about overdose prevention.

Join our family this IOAD.

#OneBigFamily #DrivenByHope #IOAD2025 #EndOverdose

Article adapted from www.overdoseday.com

Events around the region

August is National Immunization Awareness Month

National Immunization Awareness Month - family gathered on couch.

National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) is an annual event in August. It serves to highlight the importance of immunizations throughout the lifespan.

The theme for 2025 is Don’t let history repeat itself. Protect your future. Get immunized!

Prairie Mountain Health continues to offer childhood and adult immunizations regularly through scheduled appointments, walk in and outreach events. Contact your local Public Health office to schedule an appointment today or to inquire about what vaccines you are eligible for.

If you have immunization records from another province or outside of Canada, please submit a copy to Manitoba Health by accessing Immunization Update Request Form

For more information on National Immunization Awareness Month please visit National Immunization Awareness Month | immunizecanada

National Indigenous Peoples Day | June 21

With the arrival of June 21 comes the summer solstice, the longest day of the year.

Annually, June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples’ Day (NIPD).

Indigenous people acknowledge the teachings of the four seasons by their representation on the medicine wheel. Summer is a time of growth and warmth. NIPD provides the experience to grow in awareness and understanding and build relationships as people come together to celebrate the culture of Indigenous people.

Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) acknowledges the history, heritage, traditions and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples within our health region.

Prairie Mountain Health provides health services on the original lands of Treaty 1, 2 & 4, territories of the Dakota, Ojibway and Cree people and the Red River Métis. We acknowledge the traditional territories and treaties that confirm recognition and respect for the Indigenous populations – past and present.

PMH encourages all who deliver health services on the original lands of First Nations people and on the homeland of Métis citizens to recognize the ongoing obligation to provide culturally safe health care. As an organization, we will continue to embrace the distinct cultural knowledge, practices and traditions of Indigenous Peoples and continue efforts to strengthen relationships with the Indigenous communities and peoples who we serve.

Information for Brandon National Indigenous Peoples Day — Click image to enlarge.

Watch social media for announcements and information on this year’s coming events in our region.

For NIPD events near your area, contact your local First Nation or Métis community.

If you are holding events in the PMH region, please share information by emailing the details to [email protected]

For more information on NIPD, check out the Government of Canada’s link About National Indigenous Peoples Day (rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca)

National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations in Dauphin — Click image to enlarge.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day – June 15

World Elder Abuse Webinar Registration Icon

Date & Time: June 11, 2025, 12:00 PM in Central Time (US and Canada)

Description: This annual event will bring together a panel of experts and advocates to inform, inspire and mobilize large audiences about elder abuse and neglect, ageism and healthy ageing.

Registration: Register HERE

Purple World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Ribbon

June 15 is World Elder Abuse Day! The purpose of this day is to promote a better understanding of elder abuse and neglect and what we can do to prevent it in the future. There are many different types of elder abuse, ranging from physical, emotional, spiritual and financial, to name a few.

What can YOU do to make a difference on this day?

Start a conversation with friends and family about elder abuse and any of the above-listed resources.
Visit a senior- they can be your neighbour, someone in assisted living or personal care home!
Engage in meaningful conversations on social media regarding the impact of Elder Abuse on you or a loved one. Use any of the following #hashtags #BeBoldAgeWithAttitude #WEAAD2025
Wear purple in solidarity.
Attend a local event! Visit https://eapon.ca/weaad to find an event near you! Or, if you are in the Brandon area, visit the Shopper Mall on Friday, June 13 and check out Brandon Health Checks Elder Abuse information booth for further information! They will be set near the Food court!
Attend the National virtual event above entitled Be Bold: Aging with Attitude!

Elderly person and care worker making a puzzle.

If you or someone you know may be experiencing any form of elder abuse, there are many supports available in Manitoba to help:

Seniors’ Abuse Support Line

Call the Seniors Abuse Support Line and speak to a trained and caring counsellor. To learn more about seniors abuse and about staying safe, remember that help is just a phone call away. You can call the Seniors Abuse Support Line even when you are not sure that what you are experiencing is abuse. All calls are free & confidential.

Toll-free: 1-888-896-7183

A & O: Support Services for Older Adults

Confidential consultation, assessment and counselling services are provided to seniors who are victims of abuse.

Toll Free: 1-888-333-3121

Website: www.aosupportservices.ca

Protection for Persons in Care Office

This Office is responsible for receiving and investigating reports of alleged abuse or neglect while receiving care in personal care homes, hospitals or any other designated health facility. If a person’s life or well-being is in immediate danger, take steps to ensure the person’s safety first, then call the PPCP’s confidential, toll-free line.

Toll-Free: 1-866-440-6366 (outside Winnipeg)

TTY Toll Free: 1-776-855-0511

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.gov.mb.ca/health/protection

Together, we can increase awareness and reduce the stigma associated with Elder Abuse!

June is Pride Month

Public Health Nurses, Jordan Sophasath and Tricia Turner at Neepawa Pride in 2024 — Jordan Sophasath, Public Health Nurse and Tricia Turner, Public Health Nurse at Neepawa Pride in 2024

June is Pride Month, all employees within PMH celebrate everyone in our 2SLGBTQSI+ community! Here are some events within Manitoba, Happy Pride!

Celebrations in Manitoba

Pride at the Leg Thursday, May 29, 2025 Learn more
Winnipeg Trans March Saturday, May 31, 2025 Learn more
Pride Winnipeg Parade on Sunday June 1, 2025 Learn more
Pembina Valley Pride Carman, Saturday, June 7, 2025. Learn more
Winnipegosis Pride Sunday June 8, 2025 Learn more
Paint with Pride Neepawa Sunday June 8, 2025 Learn more
Dauphin Walk with Pride Friday June 13, 2025 Learn more
Brandon Pride March on Saturday June 14, 2025. Learn more
Pride Portage la Prairie, Saturday, July 5, 2025
Neepawa’s got Pride Sunday September 14 2025

If you are hosting an event in your community, please share those details by emailing [email protected], and we would be happy to share that information on our website and on our social media channels.

Support Services

Visit our Gender Affirming Care Clinic page for information on services available to you within Prairie Mountain Health.

Read stories from members of 2SLGBTQQIA+ and allies within Manitoba’s health care community.

Men’s Health Week

As Father’s Day approaches, we celebrate Men’s Health Week (June 9-15 )! Men’s health week aims to improve men’s health by providing education, health services, and encouraging men to take responsibility for their health.

A group of people in blue shirts standing together

Men’s Mental Health matters, males also experience loneliness and depression and have a higher incidence of suicide than women.
Men’s physical health matters. Canadian Men’s Health Week – Statistics Canada (statcan.gc.ca)), revealed that about 29% are obese; 82% do not meet physical activity guidelines; 76% do not eat healthy food and 35 % do not get enough sleep.

Here are some easy ways to get involved:

Schedule a Health Check-up: Encourage the men in your life to schedule regular check-ups with their healthcare providers. Routine screenings, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and prostate exams, can help detect potential health concerns early on, enabling timely intervention and treatment.
Make a Small Change! Visit Don’t Change Much – Easy Health Tips For Guys (dontchangemuch.ca)

You Matter and Your Health Matters!

May 7^th is International Harm Reduction Day!

Harm Reduction can be defined as “as policies, programs and practices that seek to reduce the adverse health, social and economic consequences of the use of legal and illegal psychoactive substances. Harm reduction is pragmatic and focuses on keeping people safe and minimizing death, disease and injury associated with higher risk behavior, while recognizing that the behavior may continue despite the risks.” Government of Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long Term Care”

Some everyday examples of harm reduction include wearing sunscreen; resources on safer smoking, injecting, snorting, tobacco, alcohol consumption & vaping; wearing a seat belt; access to barrier free safer substance use supplies (smoking and injection supplies); and safer sex supplies, wearing a helmet while riding a bike and carrying naloxone.

Working from a harm reduction approach doesn’t just mean access to safer drug use supplies and Sexual Transmitted Blood Borne Infection (STBBI) testing. Harm Reduction is more than that – it’s a way of working with people in client centered, trauma-informed, anti – oppression lens. Testing clients and identifying those who are positive for a STBBI then helps providers empower those clients to take measures to minimize the risk of harm to others.

Below are PMH’s Principles of Harm Reduction:

Acceptance and Understanding – Accepts, that licit and illicit drug use is part of our world and chooses to work to minimize its effects rather than simply ignore or condemn them.

Humanism – recognizes that people do things for a reason; harmful health behaviors provide some benefit to the individual and those benefits must be assessed and acknowledged to understand the balance between harms and benefits.

Social Determinants – recognizes that the realities of poverty, class, racism, social isolation, past trauma, sex-based discrimination and other social inequalities affect both people’s vulnerability to and capacity to effectively dealing with drug – related harm. Understands drug use as a complex, multi-faceted phenomenon that encompasses a continuum of behaviors from severe use to total abstinence, and acknowledges that some ways of using drugs are safer than others.

Peer informed – ensures that people who use drugs and those with a history of drug use routinely have a real voice in the creation of programs and policies designed to serve them.

Client Centered & Non- Judgmental – calls for the non-judgmental, non – coercive provision of services and resources to people who use drugs and the communities in which they live in order to assist them in reducing harm.

Promotes Autonomy and Dignity – Affirms that people who use drugs themselves as the primary agents of reducing the harms of their drug use an seeks to empower people who use drugs to share information and support each other in strategies which meet their actual conditions of use.

In recognition of National Harm Reduction Day, the following events will be taking place:

Brandon, May 7th
- 1pm – 2pm, Princess Park – Community Spring Clean Up
- Morning supply distribution outreach with MHRN & Healthy Sexuality and Harm Reduction
- May 21^st Spring Testing and Resource Event – Princess Park from 12pm-3pm.

Dauphin, May 7th from 1-3, CN Park – Community Spring Clean Up

Swan River, May 7^th, STBBI Testing – Location and time to be determined

Carberry, May 7^th Carberry United Church – outreach van will be doing STBBI testing, supply distribution from 9-11am
- Carberry Motor Inn – outreach van will be doing STBBI testing, naloxone training and distribution and supply distribution from 12:30-2:30.

Awareness Months Weeks Days