Bendigo Health proudly announces the 2023 Move for Mental Health Challenge achieved its fundraising goal of $70,000 thanks to our generous community.
These funds will ensure the continuation of the Exercise & Wellbeing Program specifically designed for our regionally based mental health patients.
Rachel Mason, Bendigo Health's Director of Fundraising and Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm saying, "We are delighted to have reached our target for the 2023 Move for Mental Health Challenge. The community's support has created awareness and funds raised will allow us to enhance the lives of mental health patients in the Loddon Mallee region."
Since its inception in 2020, Move for Mental Health has now raised over $270,000. This year's success builds upon the positive impact achieved in previous campaigns.
A local patient, Ben Smith has been using the exercise program for over a year now, attending three weekly sessions. "The sessions get me out of the house and are good for me. I feel like I am getting fitter. It’s patients from Dual Diagnosis Unit (DDU) and Community Care Unit (CCU) all coming together which is really good," he said.
James Long, a Peer Support Worker at Bendigo Health, expressed gratitude for the ongoing support, emphasising the positive outcomes observed. "We want to thank everyone from Bendigo Health. It has been fantastic to be able to use the patient transport bus with funds raised last year and to see people’s wellbeing improve, thanks to these programs."
Last year's funds were instrumental in acquiring a patient transport bus, enhancing access to specialised exercise programs for mental health patients. This year's funds will sustain and allow us to expand the program to empower mental health patients in the region.
To learn more about Move for Mental Health or to contribute to this impactful cause, visit www.bendigohealthfoundation.org.au/m4mh.
