Mentis Assist is delighted to announce that our Creative Possibilities project has received $5,000 through Metro Trains’ Moving Melbourne Community Grants Program.
The successful application was developed and submitted by Deb and Kerry, Mental Health Practitioners in our Early Intervention Psychosocial Support Response (EIPSR) program. Their submission was one of just 14 selected for funding from a highly competitive field of more than 120 applications.
The grant will support the continuation of Creative Possibilities, an arts-based group that helps participants build confidence, express themselves creatively and connect with others in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Through a variety of creative activities, participants have opportunities to explore their imagination, develop new skills and experience the enjoyment and sense of achievement that comes from making art. Previous projects have included birdhouses, glass lanterns, wire and clay sculptures, and paintings on canvas.
Participants have reported that creating art alongside others has had a positive impact on their mental health and wellbeing. Tactile activities can support grounding and mindfulness, while the creative process encourages problem-solving, concentration and self-expression. Just as importantly, the group provides opportunities for social participation and meaningful connection with the local community.
The Metro Trains funding will enable approximately 20 participants to take part in group sessions leading to a public exhibition at Cube 37, Frankston’s community access gallery. Funding will contribute to studio and gallery hire, art materials, tools and equipment, and exhibition costs including an opening celebration, catalogue and promotional postcards.
The exhibition will give participants an opportunity to share their work with family, friends and the wider community. By showcasing participants’ creativity, skills and strengths, the project also aims to challenge stigma and promote a more positive understanding of people experiencing mental health challenges.
Creative Possibilities has been successfully delivered over the past two years with the support of donated and sponsored materials. This grant provides an exciting opportunity to strengthen the program and publicly celebrate what participants have achieved.
Mentis Assist sincerely thanks Metro Trains for recognising the value of Creative Possibilities and making the next stage of the project possible. We also congratulate Deb and Kerry for their initiative, dedication and work in securing this highly competitive funding.
We look forward to sharing more about the participants’ creative journey and the upcoming exhibition.
