MHCB Objectives:

1. To promote positive mental health in children, youth, families and communities by raising awareness, increasing knowledge, building personal skills (such as self-care and self-regulation techniques), developing interpersonal skills and fostering positive community norms (such as support networks, physical and psychological safety).

2. To intervene early by facilitating access to early intervention and treatment services for children, youth, parents and/or caregivers at the greatest risk of (or are currently experiencing ) addiction and mental health issues.

3. Improve knowledge of and access of effective and innovative services across the mental health continuum through community collaborative networks with schools, health supports, and community agencies to coordinate and streamline existing services (while identifying and advocating for unmet needs).

How We Support These Objectives:

Right from the Start (RFTS) is committed to promoting mental health and wellness for children, youth, families, and communities. Through embedded school-based programming and community outreach, RFTS plays a key role in achieving the following objectives:

1. Promoting Positive Mental Health
   RFTS supports positive mental health by increasing awareness and reducing stigma through classroom education, school-wide initiatives, and community programming. We build students’ personal skills in areas such as self-care, emotional regulation, and stress management, and help develop their interpersonal abilities through social-emotional learning and relationship-building activities. RFTS also fosters positive community norms by encouraging connectedness, promoting inclusion and safety, and supporting caring adult relationships in schools and communities.
   
   

2. Early Intervention and Access to Support
   RFTS is dedicated to identifying and supporting children, youth, and families who may be at risk of, or are currently experiencing, mental health or addiction challenges. Staff members facilitate access to appropriate early intervention and treatment services by working closely with school teams, caregivers, and community resources. RFTS, alongside school staff, families, and caregivers, identify students who may benefit from further assessment or support, ensuring timely and appropriate referrals to mental health services.
   
   

3. Improving Access Through Collaboration
   RFTS actively participates in community collaborative networks and local agencies to enhance coordination of care and streamline access to mental health supports. In addition to in-school collaboration, RFTS works with community partners to offer free and accessible programs and activities during school breaks, including summer programming. These initiatives provide continued mental health support, connection, and engagement for children, youth, and families when school is not in session—ensuring ongoing access to wellness resources year-round.

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