Ogijiita Pimatiswin Kinamatwin (OPK) receives a $150,000 donation from Bell Let’s Talk during a presentation in Winnipeg on Wednesday, January 24, 2018. (WINNIPEG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE)
WINNIPEG — An organization dedicated to working with Indigenous youth and adults reenter society after stints in provincial or federal institutions has received $150,000 for their efforts.
Bell Let’s Talk made the donation to Ogijiita Pimatiswin Kinamatwin (OPK) on Wednesday, helping to expand mental health services that encourage healing and resiliency through programs to develop life skills.
The program was founded in 2001 by late Elder Larry Morrissette, whose organization has a focus on culturally sensitive programming for those aged 18 to 29, as well as youth.
“OPK is making a real difference in the lives of young people in Winnipeg and we look forward to working with them to expand their reach in the years ahead,” said Mary Deacon, chair of Bell Let’s Talk.
Bell’s mental health campaign also announced a $10,000 grant to NorWest Co-op Community Health Inc. to further engage and support Winnipeg youth through the Youth Community Action Training (Y-CAT) program.
Last May, Bell made a joint donation with Unifor of $200,000 to Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre (Ma Mawi) and CMHA Manitoba and Winnipeg to support the launch of the Strengthening Wellness Education to Love Life (SWELL) program.
Bell Let’s Talk day is January 31.
