Baseball teams going to bat for mental health

Welland Chiefs, Merritton Alliance hope to raise $10,000 in fourth annual charity game

When the Welland Chiefs host the Merritton Alliance in senior men’s baseball on Wednesday night, the usual stats, such as strikeouts, home runs and runs batted in, won't be so important.

But there is one that will really count: the amount of money raised to help support local mental health initiatives offered by the Canadian Mental Health Association's Niagara chapter.

Hoping to raise $10,000 to support mental wellness in the region this year, Steve Maurice and Jennifer Richards of the Welland Chiefs have organized the annual Strike Out Stigma game for a fourth year.

The goal is to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illnesses and increase support for local mental health initiatives, said Richards, who is also Strike Out Stigma co-chairwoman.

“We want to make sure that whatever services are needed are there for the people seeking them out.”

Welland and Merritton players are collecting pledges to participate in the game.

Tara McKendrick, executive director, of the Niagara branch of Canadian Mental Health Association, said the support is appreciated.

“We can't thank Strike Out Stigma's organizers enough for hosting this event to raise funds and bring awareness to mental health in our community,” she said. “One in five Canadians will experience a mental health concern, and the other four will provide support and caregiving.

“This event allows us to meet people, talk with them about their experiences, and direct them to where to go for help.” The gates at Welland Stadium open at 6:30 p.m. with the first pitch an hour later.

Admission is free. Activities and baseball game night giveaways will be held throughout the evening. Welland Jackfish mascot, Jacques, will also be in attendance, to meet and greet fans.

More information is available at online at strikeoutstigmagame.ca.