Release: Nova Scotia Musicians are "Changing the Way People Think" About Mental Illness this Christmas

Back in 1985, voices around the globe united in hopes of changing the world.

In the United Kingdom, Band Aid's "Do They Know It's Christmas?" topped the charts, while USA for Africa's "We Are the World" and Canada's "Tears Are Not Enough" captivated hearts and sparked an outpouring of donations. It was a time to sing together with a common purpose. And now, it's time again!

The Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia is pleased to be launching a new Holiday project designed to inspire a province. "Changing the Way People Think... At Christmas" is a CD with an important message of hope and understanding for Nova Scotians who are touched by mental illness and their families.

Twelve Nova Scotia artists have come together to sing the title song "Changing the Way People Think" in perfect harmony. Under the leadership of Executive Producer, Lana Grant, and Music Producer, Chris Iannetti, this song has grown into an amazing collaboration that touches on several genres of music and vocal styles.

The stellar line-up of "Artists for Change" includes - JRDN, Dave Carroll, Laura Garsten, John Gracie, Lana Grant, Asif Illyas, Makayla Lynn, Ryan MacDonald, RyLee Madison, Quake Matthews, Liz Rigney & Marko Simmonds.

"Changing the Way People Think... At Christmas" is generously funded by well-known Nova Scotia philanthropists and friends of the Foundation, Fred and Elizabeth Fountain. It will be sold at Lawtons stores throughout the province and Needs Convenience in the HRM beginning November 17th, and available online at www.heraldshop.ca and www.mentalhealthns.ca/christmas-cd. The project will officially launch the Chronicle Herald’s Parade of Lights pre-show concert on Barrington Street by Parade Square on November 15th at 5:30 p.m. The pre-show concert will air live on Eastlink.

The CDs will retail for $20, with ALL proceeds going directly to the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia. They will also be available for digital download at a price point of $9.99. The group single, "Changing the Way People Think", will also be sold online for $1.99.

"We know music is an important component of healing and recovery for many people," says Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia President & CEO, Starr Dobson. "We also know music is a beautiful and traditional part of the Holidays that brings friends and families together. Our hope is that all Nova Scotians will recognize the strength of this song and bring it into their homes for the Holidays. It's music that can truly make a difference ~ to Nova Scotians struggling with mental illness, their families and everyone."

"Changing the Way People Think... At Christmas" will also include a 12-page booklet with information and resources for people requiring mental health assistance.

It's a perfect locally-made product that is sure to be a must-have present under every tree this Christmas.

Together, we're changing the way people think, so we hope you'll help us spread the word and share this festive song.

Interviews with Starr Dobson, Lana Grant and other artists can be arranged upon request. 

About the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia
The Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia is a registered charity dedicated to improving the lives of the more than 200,000 Nova Scotians who are living with mental illness. It exists to increase awareness, reduce stigma and raise much-needed funds.

www.mentalhealthns.ca

 

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Contact:

Colleen Fraser, Communications Coordinator
Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia
T: (902) 464-3210
E: colleen.fraser@cdha.nshealth.ca
Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia
Suite 1120, 300 Pleasant Street
Dartmouth, NS   B2Y 3Z9