The Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital (KBRH) Health Foundation is thanking United Steelworkers Local 480 for a $500 contribution to the Mental Health Matters Campaign.
“This contribution will help transform mental health services at KBRH,” the foundation shared. “Thank you for your continued support.”
The donation comes at a particularly timely moment, following comments from Local 480 President Chris Walker in the union’s June 2025 newsletter, in which he underscores the importance of addressing mental health in both personal and workplace settings.
Walker emphasizes that mental health is just as vital as physical health, noting that it impacts everyone either directly or indirectly.
He calls for a renewed effort to speak more openly about mental health, particularly in high-pressure workplaces where emotional challenges are often overlooked.
In his message, Walker encourages members to watch for signs that someone may be struggling, such as withdrawal, fatigue, mood changes, or increased use of substances.
He reminds union members that small actions, like checking in on one another, listening without judgement, and encouraging the use of support resources, can make a meaningful difference.
“You don’t have to have all the answers to make a difference, you just need to show that you care,” he writes.
Walker also stresses the importance of fostering a safe and respectful environment, especially for summer students new to the workforce, and reiterates that the union's role is to advocate for all members, regardless of political views.
Mental Health Matters
Launched in February 2025, the Mental Health Matters campaign is the KBRH Health Foundation’s most ambitious fundraising effort to date, with a goal of raising $2 million to improve mental health care across the Kootenay Boundary.
Funds will support major upgrades to the Daly Pavilion (the acute psychiatric care unit), Harbour House (a residential rehabilitation facility), and the creation of a dedicated pediatric outdoor space.
These improvements are aimed at creating safer, trauma-informed environments that prioritize dignity, recovery, and patient-centred care for people of all ages.
Community members can contribute to the campaign by visiting www.kbrhhealthfoundation.ca, calling 250-364-3424, or mailing donations to the KBRH Health Foundation, 1200 Hospital Bench, Trail, B.C., V1R 4M1.
