Teenager donates food to mental health patients

(CNS Local Life): A teenager undertook a month-long food drive collecting goods for the Cayman Islands Hospital’s Mental Health Unit to help provide support to patients after their hospital treatment. Sophie Elias, 13, with the assistance of her mother, Charmaine Elias, launched the drive with the goal of donating the food to mental health patients who might not have sustainable income following their treatment. She made the donation during Mental Health Week, which ran from 8-13 October.

“I wanted to provide food for those individuals with financial challenges so they can focus on their recovery and wellbeing,” Sophie Elias said.

With the assistance of her family, friends, school and community, she was able to purchase $300 worth of groceries. Local company Progressive Distributors matched her contribution. She presented the donation to representatives of the Mental Health Unit on Tuesday, 10 October and was awarded with a certificate of appreciation.

“Sophie continues to amaze us with her strong desire to help those most vulnerable and her passion for community service, especially at such a young age,” mental health nurse manager Phil Stater said. “Last year she raised money to purchase and donate a basketball hoop to our in-patient area and this year she has done even more. We are so grateful for this thoughtful contribution and the continued effort she has put into assisting our patients.”

Tags: Cayman Islands Hospital, Featured, Mental Health Unit

Category: Donations, Medical and Health