By Sarah Klein
The St-Boniface Hospital Foundation launched a $535,000 campaign Wednesday, aimed at enhancing the services offered by the Mental Health Program at St-Boniface Hospital.
During a morning news conference, officials said they have already raised $235,000 of their goal with the help of generous donors, including an $80,000 contribution from physicians working in the program.
The Mental Health Program treats approximately 500 patients a year, with thirty inpatient beds on two floors of the McEwen building. Patients range in age from 18 to 90, and recover from mental illness including depression, bipolar, personality disorders and psychotic disorders.
Funds raised will also be put towards purchasing state-of-the-art equipment to treat anxiety disorders and depression, which are among the most common kinds of mental illness.