Around 10% of Canadian men experience some kind of mental health challenge throughout their life. Both men and women experience the same mental health disorders, but the willingness to open up can be different.
WHO WE ARE
Welcome to The San Fernando Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving mental health access in Ottawa, with a particular emphasis on men's mental health and marginalized groups. Our mission is inspired by the memory of our founder's father, who tragically lost his life to suicide in 2021.
The foundation is named after San Fernando, Trinidad, where our founder's father was born and raised. This name is a tribute to his deep connection to the culture and music that define the region. It's a reminder that he was more than the pain he endured, and our organization seeks to honor his memory by making mental health resources more accessible to those who need them most.
MENTAL HEALTH IS JUST AS IMPORTANT AS PHYSICAL HEALTH.
The San Fernando Foundation is dedicated to making mental health resources more accessible in our community, with a focus on men's mental health. Our mission is to provide support and resources to those in need, and to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, regardless of their background or financial situation.
San Fernando, Trinidad.
HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
The San Fernando Foundation is committed to raising money to donate to the following programs and organizations in Ottawa that offer free access to mental health resources/psychotherapy. Donations allow these programs to continue running smoothly and make them even better.
Saint Paul University’s Counselling and Psychotherapy Centre
We are proud to raise money for Saint Paul University's Counselling and Psychotherapy Centre. They provide up to 30 appointments per person and offer services in both English and French
Canadian Mental Health Association, Ottawa Branch
The Canadian Mental Health Association is dedicated to promoting good mental health, developing and implementing sustainable support systems and services, and encouraging public action to strengthen community mental health services and related policies and legislation.
Upstream Ottawa
Upstream Ottawa has been a provider of community-based mental health services since 1985. We are committed to providing meaningful community-based, client-focused and equitable mental health, substance-use health and addiction support services to adult and youth populations.