Record Turnout at BMO Walk so Kids Can Talk Raises $3.7 Million for Youth Mental Health

TORONTO – The Greater Toronto Area witnessed an overwhelming display of community support this past weekend as more than 12,600 individuals rallied together for the BMO Walk so Kids Can Talk event. Organized in support of Kids Help Phone’s #FeelOutLoud campaign, the event surpassed expectations, raising an impressive $3.7 million and counting for youth mental health initiatives.

Participants from across the nation, including the Greater Toronto Area, converged both in person and virtually to take part in Canada’s largest walk dedicated to raising funds and awareness for youth mental health and well-being. With May designated as Mental Health Awareness Month, the timing of the event couldn’t have been more poignant, serving as a rallying cry for greater attention and resources directed towards this critical issue.

A notable highlight of this year’s event was the significant involvement of Team BMO, with over 10,000 employees, family members, and friends joining the cause. Their enthusiastic participation not only underscored the bank’s commitment to social responsibility but also contributed over $2.1 million to the overall fundraising efforts.

John McNain, Chief Operating Officer of North American Personal & Business Banking at BMO, emphasized the institution’s longstanding partnership with Kids Help Phone, spanning 35 years. “BMO’s commitment to giving is guided by our Purpose, to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life,” McNain stated, highlighting the bank’s dedication to supporting initiatives that positively impact communities.

Angela Sim, Chief Technology Resiliency, Experience, and Operations Officer at BMO, echoed McNain’s sentiments, expressing gratitude to the organizers, volunteers, and participants for their unwavering support. “The support and donations raised from the Walk provide Kids Help Phone with critical operating funds to maintain valuable services for youth across Canada,” Sim remarked, emphasizing the tangible impact of collective action.

The funds raised through the BMO Walk so Kids Can Talk event are crucial in ensuring that Kids Help Phone can continue to provide essential services to young people across Canada. As the country’s only 24/7 national e-mental health service, Kids Help Phone offers professional counselling, live chat, text-based support, and information and referrals for young people in need.

Aaron Sanderson, Senior Vice President Advancement & Chief Development Officer at Kids Help Phone, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, noting, “Seeing families, friends, and colleagues all come together across Canada and rally the much-needed support for youth mental health reaffirms why this walk is so important.”

In addition to providing support for individual well-being, initiatives like the BMO Walk so Kids Can Talk play a crucial role in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues and promoting open dialogue within communities.

Commentary:

The record turnout and fundraising success of the BMO Walk so Kids Can Talk event demonstrate the power of collective action in addressing pressing social issues, such as youth mental health. In the Greater Toronto Area, where community engagement is paramount, events like these serve as catalysts for positive change, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among residents. As we continue to navigate the complexities of mental health, it’s heartening to see businesses like BMO leading the charge in supporting vital initiatives that benefit our communities. By investing in the well-being of our youth, we pave the way for a healthier, more resilient future for all.