The Fort Frances branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association will be taking Steps against Stigma.

Its annual Glow Walk takes place Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the Sorting Gap Marina.

Director of Services Pauline Hyatt says it is their awareness walk as part of Mental Illness Awareness Week.

This year’s theme is Awareness, Access and Parity for mental health and substance use care in Canada.

“Not everyone knows, but 20% of Canadians in any given year will experience mental health concerns, but only one-third of those people will seek help. So we really want people to know we’re here, we’re supporting them, and we would like everyone to come out and gather,” says Hyatt.

Participants are asked to dress up as prizes will be awarded for the best glow, best group and best glow pet.

There is also a request for a donation of at least ten dollars.

The money is used to offset the costs of programming.

“You can walk, you can run, and if you can’t make it, you can still donate online as well. We had over 300 walkers and runners last year, and we’re hoping we can beat that number,” says Hyatt.

CMHA will also have staff on-site to answer questions about mental health and the programming offered in Fort Frances.

People can register on our CMHA’s Facebook page, or they can visit one of their two locations at 612 Portage Avenue or 414 Scott Street to register in person.

Late registration will also occur just prior to the walk.