Moving Forward Family Services
Accessible low-cost and free counselling for Canadians.
| Date | Investors | Amount | Round |
|---|---|---|---|
* | $200k | Grant | |
| Total Funding | 000k | ||
Moving Forward Family Services is a non-profit charitable organization that provides accessible mental health services across Canada. It was founded by Gary Thandi, who holds a Master's in Social Work and has personal and professional experience with the importance of mental health support. Thandi started the organization to address the gap for individuals who are not eligible for public sector services and cannot afford private therapy, aiming to provide timely support and emphasize early intervention.
The organization's business model is centered on bridging the gap between often restrictive and long-wait public services and expensive private options. It offers free short-term and affordable long-term counselling, made possible by a unique staffing model that utilizes supervised students in the final stages of their social work and counselling programs, as well as registered therapists offering sliding scale services. In one year, the organization provided over 22,000 counselling sessions, with 15,000 of those offered at no cost and paid sessions averaging $5 to $7. Donations are a key part of their funding, with a $20 contribution capable of funding a free therapy session or a community workshop.
Services are available in-person in the lower mainland of British Columbia and through online platforms and telephone for individuals, couples, and families across Canada. The organization offers a wide array of services addressing issues such as trauma, stress, anxiety, substance use, grief, depression, and family conflict. Additionally, they provide several free coaching programs, including Life Skills, Healthy Relationships, Substance Use Management, and Parenting.
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