Journey of Hope Walk raises awareness about mental illness

WINNIPEG – Manitobans kicked off Mental Illness Awareness Week by walking around The Forks Sunday.

They were hoping to raise $30,000 for free programs and services to improve the lives of those affected by schizophrenia and psychosis. Education, peer support programs, public workshops, research and advocacy groups are just a few of the services that the walk helps support.

“It’s really important to the society to raise the awareness and get the people out,” said Dave King, one of the walkers. “We’re all impacted by mental illness in some way shape or form.”

This year marked the 23rd annual Journey of Hope Walk put on by the non-profit Manitoba Schizophrenia Society. Each year the walk aims to raise awareness in the province about mental illness.