November 28, 2020 (Halifax, NS)— More than one thousand sets of eyes helped Steele the Spotlight for Mental Health at the 29th Festival of Trees presented by RBC. The signature fundraiser of the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia featured the Advocate Forest of Trees, Online Auction, Steele the Spotlight for Mental Health Virtual Event, and a scaled back Resto Festo. Faced with rising COVID cases, the Foundation got out in front of restrictions by preemptively closing its in-person aspects of the event. A virtual version of the Forest was launched and the holiday display was rearranged to be viewed safely from outside.
“2020 has been all about adaptation and perhaps no one understands that better than Nova Scotians living with mental illness and addiction,” says President & CEO Starr Cunningham. “The funds raised tonight will ensure mental health supports and services are available to all Nova Scotians, in their own communities. We want to thank our donors for providing those among us who are struggling with access to the tools they need to build resilience, connection, healthy thinking, and wellness as we continue to face the challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.”
While some Resto Festo participants were forced to withdraw due to new public health restrictions, many restaurants stepped up despite their own challenges; offering takeout and even making personal donations to provide funding to mental health initiatives in Nova Scotia communities. This type of community support has been been paramount to the event’s success.
Steele the Spotlight for Mental Health acted as a stand-in for the Foundation’s highly-regarded Black Tie Gala and Holiday Luncheon. Hundreds of viewers were treated to a 90 minute broadcast featuring inspiring stories about the Foundation’s work and an intimate concert by Chantal Kreviazuk. Hosted by Foundation champion Nancy Regan, the virtual event also featured a poignant message from President & CEO Starr Cunningham and live cut-ins from the Forest by Foundation’s Marketing & Communications Lead Jill Chappell.
The Festival of Trees online auction brought in more than $61,000. More than fifty items were auctioned off including the popular wreaths and cakes from Festivals past. Starr's famous shortbread cookies went for $1,000 with an added boost from Nancy Regan's fudge. All sixteen trees from the Forest went to the highest bidders with Dr. Robert Strang's "The Ties that Bind" going for $8,250, and Revolve’s “A Starry Night” tree bringing in $8,100. The Forest will remain on display at The Doyle until December 5th where it can be safely viewed through the windows of the rotunda.
"While much has changed this year, much has stayed the same," says Cunningham. "The Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia is continuing to work diligently each and every day to ensure Nova Scotians living with mental illness and addiction are thriving in our communities.The latest Impact Report states 38% of Canadians say their mental health has declined due to COVID-19. That’s a big number. And, it requires big action."
The Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia would like to extend its gratitude to its generous sponsors who showed their steadfast commitment in a time of great need: RBC Royal Bank, Advocate, Shannex, Steele Auto Group, and St. John Ambulance. As well as Media Partner, CTV; Branding Partner, Revolve; A/V Partner, FMAV, Video Partner RPM Productions, Marketing Partner Trampoline, Transportation Partner Premiere Van Lines, and Wine Partner Bishop’s Cellar. The Foundation would also like to recognize its Mental Health Heroes: Bell Aliant, CBCL, Compass Group Canada, Emera, Hanmac Capital and MICCO Companies who made outstanding contributions to support the mental health of all Nova Scotians when they need it the most.