From the Media Release:

There’s a new tool available to the Chatham-Kent community thanks to a collaboration of local stakeholders.

Launching just in time for Mental Health Week (May 1-7), Be Safe, a free mobile app, allows users to quickly and easily access local mental health resources that are nearby, available, and up to date.

Users of the Be Safe app will be able to connect to the right resource in a time of crisis; develop an individualized safety plan for current or future use, and access a list of local and national resources that fit the users needs and support criteria.

This initiative is the result of a collaboration between local nonprofit and healthcare professionals on the Mental Health Social Planning and Action (SPA) Table. The SPA Tables, facilitated by the United Way of Chatham-Kent, have been meeting weekly since the start of the pandemic.

Megan Walker, a Therapist with Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario, Chatham-Kent (formerly ACCESS Open Minds), knows that the need for mental health support in Chatham-Kent is high, and is pleased that the app can make it easier for everyone, but in particular youth and their families, to find that support.

“People don’t always know how to access mental health resources, and the Be Safe app is a resource that will help improve community awareness,” she says.

Be Safe is available across Apple and Android devices and is easy to use – something that was important to the Mental Health SPA Table. Walker explains, “The app is free of cost and brings the user to local resources across Chatham-Kent, which helps increase awareness of mental health supports that are available, as well as how to access them when needed.”

The introduction of the Be Safe app in Chatham-Kent is the third in a series of mental health and wellness initiatives from the Mental Health SPA Table. Previously the group had launched the “Name It, Don’t Numb It” mental health bracelet program in schools across CK, and the Spring Into Wellness free Yoga and mindfulness program.

To download the Be Safe app, visit besafeapp.ca.

The Mental Health Social Planning and Action (SPA) Table is facilitated by United Way of Chatham-Kent in partnership with:

Angel Bilagot, The Co. (table facilitator)

Julie Whalen, LinCK

Cathy DeBressor-Knowler, CK Public Health

Megan Walker, Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario, Chatham-Kent

Emily Paul, St. Clair College

Jenn Prothero, Prothero Wellness

Marge Muharrem, Women United