Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.
While professional help is very necessary, it's not always available at 8 p.m. or midnight. I talked about peer support and the importance of supporting that across Canada.
In 2013, Mood Disorders Society of Canada signed a five-year contribution agreement with the Government of Canada, and with project partners the Mental Health Commission of Canada and the University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research. Together, we helped develop the Canadian Depression Research and Intervention Network, CDRIN. CDRIN now has seven depression research hubs across the country, involving 53 research institutions and organizations working together on depression, suicide, and PTSD. We now have four major research projects moving forward.
We also have a hub focused solely on indigenous wellness issues. All its researchers are of indigenous heritage, and are located in all provinces across the country. This is an example of the federal government leading innovation to address mental illness.
I'd like to thank the federal government for its support in our Transitions to Communities program, a partnership between Mood Disorders Society of Canada, the opportunities fund of Employment and Social Development Canada, and Veterans Affairs Canada. Our goal is to assist nearly 450 veterans in three cities over three years who are experiencing obstacles. The program provides direct supports to veterans, with a focus on employability skills, mental well-being, and peer support. This is another innovative program that incorporates mental health knowledge and wellness maintenance into the daily lives of participants.
In conclusion, the budget under discussion has significant positive support for mental health, wellness, and illness programs and initiatives. We commend them to you and urge you to support the budget's implementations.
I thank you for your time.