Nearly 6 million, or 1 in 5 Canadians, will suffer from mental illness

The Canada Post Foundation for Mental Health was formed when Canada Post adopted mental health as its cause of choice in 2007. Thanks to the support of Canadians across the country and of Canada Post employees, customers and suppliers, more than $1 million was raised for the Foundation in 2008. Funds were raised a number of ways, including the sale of a special commemorative postage stamp, $1 donations at post office counters and contributions from Canada Post’s employees, customers and suppliers. The mental health stamp remains available at post offices nationwide; each booklet sold generates $1 for the Foundation. Additionally, donations can be made online anytime.

In April 2009, the Foundation invited community-based groups across the country to apply for funding of projects that would directly benefit people affected by mental illness; these funds are being distributed now. Governed by an independent board, the Foundation supports front-line organizations serving consumers* and their caregivers.

* Many people receiving mental-health care prefer the term "consumer" rather than patient, to better reflect the active role they play in managing their mental health.