The Playtime Casino in Hanover is going to be kicking off Mental Health Awareness Week with a fundraising barbecue.
On Monday, May 6, the third annual #ActForChange 2024 barbecue event will be held at the Playtime Casino, no matter the weather.
Gateway Gives Champion Jennifer Sanderson says that the fundraising event is their favourite way to start off Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs May 6-12.
“We like to kick it off as a staff to bring more awareness to mental health,” says Sanderson. “Especially in this area, where the support programs are fairly limited.”
This year’s theme is centred on the healing power of compassion.
She says that as a casino, it’s also important to bring awareness to gambling addiction.
Playtime Casino even has resources for anyone who feels that they have that problem.
“When it comes to gambling, especially here at the casino, we emphasize that when you are gambling, to take a break,” she says. “If you feel you do have a problem, we do have a section here at the casino.”
Sanderson adds that at that point, they can help refer someone to the CMHA and their problem gambling program.
This year’s event is a community event for all to attend.
There will be a barbecue featuring West Grey premium beef, there will also be a massage therapist who will be doing massages for donation.
Silent auctions available to bid on include a gift card to Scandinave Spa of Blue Mountain, Niagara Parks Commission pass for two, Collingwood Charters Inc., Bruce Power gift basket, Lindt Chocolate gift basket, Auston Matthews game jersey, Toronto Blue Jays autographed baseball and an autographed jersey from the Canadian men’s 2020 World Junior Gold Medal team, which includes an autograph from former Owen Sound Attack captain Aidan Dudas.
This year, proceeds will benefit the Problem Gambling and CHOICES programs from CMHA Grey Bruce. Last year’s event raised $3,300.
The #ActForChange Barbecue is a rain or shine event.