Belleville, ON — May 22, 2024
Mood Disorders Society of Canada (MDSC) is proud to announce Vale’s recommitment as the Title Sponsor of the Defeat Depression campaign for another three years, beginning in 2023. This ongoing partnership underscores Vale’s dedication to mental health support across Canada, and in their communities.
In a significant event held today at the Vale Refinery in Port Colborne, representatives from Vale Base Metals laced up their walking shoes and joined the Mayor of Port Colborne, representatives from Port Cares, and the MDSC team to walk in support of the Defeat Depression campaign, and Port Cares. The gathering was not only a celebration of Vale’s longstanding sponsorship but also a demonstration of collective support for mental health.
“As the national title sponsor for Mood Disorders Society of Canada, Vale Base Metals is proud to ‘walk the talk’,” said Nadeem Khan, head of Port Colborne Operations for Vale Base Metals. “Today is as much about celebrating our longstanding sponsorship as it is about making an investment in a future—a future where communities across Canada are empowered to make change and have the resources needed to support those dealing with depression.”
Vale Base Metals has been an instrumental partner in the Defeat Depression campaign since 2017 and has served as the National Title Sponsor since 2018. The campaign focuses on raising funds in support of mental illness and reducing the stigma for those impacted by depression and other mental health issues. Through various events such as walks, runs, rides, and other physical and social activities, the campaign mobilizes community groups, mental health organizations, caring companies, and volunteers nationwide to raise crucial funds and awareness.
“We are deeply grateful for Vale’s continued support. Their dedication and commitment not only provides the necessary financial resources but also strengthens our collective effort to destigmatize mental health issues and promote wellness across Canada.” — Dave Gallson, National Executive Director for Mood Disorders Society of Canada.
This national program aligns seamlessly with Vale Base Metals’ focus on the importance of mental health in both the workplace and the broader communities where it operates. Depression is a pervasive illness that can affect anyone, regardless of socioeconomic, educational, or cultural background. Physical activities like walking and running, combined with social interaction, are proven methods to enhance mental well-being.
About Mood Disorders Society of Canada:
Mood Disorders Society of Canada (MDSC) was launched in 2001 to provide people impacted by mood disorders, their families, and caregivers with a strong, cohesive voice at the national level on issues relating to mental health and mental illness. MDSC aims to improve access to treatment, inform research, and shape program development and government policy to improve the quality of life for people affected by mood disorders.
MDSC has evolved to become one of Canada’s best-connected mental health Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) with a demonstrated track record for forging and maintaining meaningful and sustained partnerships with the public, private, voluntary, and non-profit sectors throughout Canada.
For more information:
info@mdsc.ca
(613) 921-5565
www.mdsc.ca
