New Kickstand funding supports youth mental health

by ahnationtalk on October 16, 2025103 Views

Oct 16, 2025

Kickstand, a not-for-profit organization supporting youth mental health, is receiving funding to expand in-person and online care so youth can have more good days.

Alberta’s government is focused on building better futures for children and youth, including through early intervention initiatives. This includes partnering with Kickstand, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to youth mental health and holistic well-being. Supports include in-person Kickstand centres, as well as online through Kickstand Connect.

All Kickstand services are free and confidential, with no wait list or referrals required. Supports are targeted to Albertans aged 11 to 25 and their caregivers.

Alberta’s government is investing almost $15 million over three years (2023-26) to support Kickstand. Starting this year, the federal government is committing $10 million over four years to support Kickstand’s efforts to expand services.

“Kickstand’s youth-centred approach helps young Albertans get fast, accessible support for mental health and wellbeing – with no waitlists and no barriers. These investments from Alberta’s government and the federal government will support youth, families and communities.”

Rick Wilson, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction

“A single door can lead to a world of opportunities and support. Integrated Youth Service hubs are changing lives, offering youth and families one entry point to get help they need. Supporting young Canadian today means building a Canada strong for generations to come.”

Marjorie Michel, federal minister of Health

Provincially funded, fully integrated Kickstand centres are already operating in Bonnyville, Drayton Valley, Fort Saskatchewan, Grande Prairie and Medicine Hat. A philanthropically funded Kickstand centre is also operating in Edmonton at West Edmonton Mall. Another five centres, including three in First Nations communities, are operating with varying service levels and working towards full integration.

Government of Alberta’s funding also supports Kickstand Connect, a free online portal and mobile app through which young people can access same-day or pre-booked appointments for mental health and addiction counselling, employment services, peer support and more.

This new federal funding will support the opening of five additional centres, at locations still to be determined, for a total of 15 provincially and federally funded centres throughout the province once fully operational.

“This funding will allow us to expand the number of Centres across Alberta and strengthen our integrated service model in collaboration with young people and community partners. When young people or their families walk into a Kickstand Centre, they are welcomed into a friendly, inclusive and culturally safe space where they can access mental health care, physical and sexual health services, peer support and help navigating life transitions. Investing in young Albertans is investing in a healthier, more connected future for our province.”

Katherine Hay, executive director, Kickstand

Kickstand centres are accessible, inclusive and designed in collaboration with youth to ensure spaces are comfortable and welcoming. While specific services vary by location, Kickstand centres are hubs offering an integrated single point of access to mental health support, substance use services, peer support, Indigenous wellness services, primary health care and social services.

Alberta’s government is making record investments in mental health services to support Albertans of all ages in their pursuit of wellness and recovery. This includes investing in CASA Mental Health’s school-based, live-in and day programs; digital supports like 211 Alberta, Kids Help Phone and Kickstand Connect; supporting in-person Kickstand youth mental health hubs; increasing access to eating disorder treatment for young Albertans; and investing in affordable virtual and in-person counselling.

Related information

New Kickstand funding supports youth mental health

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