Mental Health

FIR SQUARE UNIT

Centred around women’s goals, FIR helps women and newborns who are recovering from substance use.

At FIR Square women are supported – sometimes for many months – with clinical care, counselling, and skills training to help them stabilize and recover from substance dependence with their babies. Keeping mothers and newborns together is a priority.

In July 2019, FIR Square is moving into a new, enhanced, renovated space at BC Women’s. Their harm reduction model of care is already a world-leader, so we’re striving to provide an environment to match. It will feel less clinical, providing a space where women can really feel supported in their healing and wellness. Donate to equitable healthcare that meets women where they’re at.

MOTHER-BABY UNIT

It will be the first in Canada—but it’s still in early-development. That’s where you come in.

Up to 1 in 5 women in BC will experience mental health concerns before or after giving birth. These may include episodes of depression, anxiety, or suicidal and infant-harming intentions.

What were once considered “imagined” issues influencing a woman’s health are now understood to be very real. We are determined to increase credibility, inclusiveness, and space for women in BC.

But our province currently lacks a specialized unit where mothers and their infants can stay together, and be cared for in a safe environment. This six-bed unit will provide short-term stays in an entirely women-centered environment. We are looking for one transformational donor to make this unit a reality.