The Healthy Living Team launched a Love My Community Challenge to all schools within Southern Health-Santé Sud for Mental Health Week in May.

Love My Community Day was originally created by a group of students at Roseau Valley School in southern Manitoba to spread kindness, create joy, and build relationships with community of all ages. The goal was to think of small things that we can do that help ourselves and others take care of our mental well-being. The Healthy Living Team wanted to spread the movement throughout the region and encourage all schools/classrooms to complete a project. These projects could range from simple initiatives such as community walks, activities with local senior groups, community clean up initiatives, art night, and many more. There are many ways to show our love and appreciation to our communities.

19 schools/classrooms entered the contest and did such wonderful things to connect with their communities. Entries ranged from intergenerational connections, kindness rocks spread throughout the community, community clean up events, Cultural showcase, inspirational sidewalk chalk messages, planned daycare activities, “Amazing Race”, along with many more. Five lucky schools were drawn for a $200 prize to be used towards a classroom celebration. The prize was an incentive for schools/classes to participate, with the winning classroom being able to celebrate together, socialize, and create connections all while improving their mental wellbeing.

We want to thank all the schools for their efforts to improve mental well-being! These projects definitely have a ripple effect and bring joy throughout the community. We hope this initiative gains momentum and that more schools will participate in the years to come.