CAY HILL:--- A large crowd of participants walked in solidarity last week, Thursday, November 13th, along Front Street for a Mental Health Awareness March organized by the Mental Health Foundation (MHF).
The event was held on World Kindness Day, a date that serves as a reminder that caring for one’s mental health and seeking support when needed is an essential act of kindness. This message aligned with the march's theme, “End the Silence. Break the Stigma,” which was designed to promote open conversation, self-compassion, and a culture of care and solidarity within the community.
The march commenced at the Midtown Hotel parking lot on Front Street, proceeded through the street, and concluded at the head of town on the boardwalk. Participants chanted as they moved, led by the rhythmic sounds of the Soualiga Soldiers drum band from the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Cole Bay. The event successfully drew many onlookers and supporters as the group made its way down the street.
The purpose of the march was to highlight mental health issues, reduce associated stigma, and foster understanding, support, and advocacy. MHF reminds the public that mental health matters and that community solidarity is key to breaking the silence and ending the stigma.
MHF extends its appreciation to all who participated and supported the event, making it a success. The MHF specifically recognizes the following partners and sponsors for their contributions: Don Hughes for allowing us to use the Mid Town Hotel Parking Lot, the Soualiga Soldiers from the Cole bay Seventh Day Adventist Church for their excellent performance; Philipsburg Pharmacy for the donation of a first aid kit; Constable Security BV. for providing security services; The Red Cross for their assistance and participation in the march; and Susana Diaz Granados for providing photography services.
MHF further extends its gratitude to its key stakeholders and partners, the Turning Point Foundation, the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC), the White and Yellow Cross Care Foundation (WYCCF), and the National Recovery Program Bureau (NRPB) for their vital collaboration, commitmen,t and continued support.
MHF also extends a special thank-you to Host Elecktra of Oasis 96.3, Host Gee Money, Suppa Kid and Sagan of Laser 101, Host Ramona Riley of SOS Radio, Host Lydia G.Henderson of 101.5 Radio St. Martin and Management and Host of PJD2 102.7 Radio St. Marteen for offering the opportunity to go on air to speak about mental health on the island, the available services, the ongoing stigma and to help promote the march.
The Mental Health Foundation further extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who came out and joined the event, as well as those who were present in spirit.