This year's theme is Smashing Pumpkins for Mental Health, which will be held at Meota Hall on Sept. 29. All of the revenue from the event will go to CMHAB. They are now looking for pumpkin donations. (ID 264699170 © Info634860  Dreamstime.com)

By Kenneth Cheung

SMASHING DEPRESSSION

Smash a pumpkin to raise funds for mental health

Sep 3, 2024 | 3:05 PM

A local man hopes to raise awareness for mental health issues through this year’s fundraising trade show.

Damien Gagne spoke about his own battle with mental health, noting many others struggle with what is often a silent battle. The impetus for his fundraising event came after losing a friend to suicide.

His bee farming business Red Beard Bees has partnered with the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Battlefords branch (CMHAB) to start the trade show that raises funds for those with mental health problems in the community.

“It’s doing something other than just for yourself; you will have the chance to help others who might be struggling that you don’t know about,” he said.

This year’s theme is Smashing Pumpkins for Mental Health, which will be held at Meota Hall on Sept. 29. All the revenue from the event will go to CMHAB.

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Gagne said the event raised approximately $1,300 last year.

However, due to this season’s poor harvest, he is now looking for pumpkin donations to make the event possible.

Gagne explained the number of pumpkins harvested was lower than expected due to dry weather and the inability to afford the cost of continuously watering the farm. He mentioned he has been asking the community for help to donate pumpkins, and the result so far is underwhelming.

This year’s tradeshow and pumpkin smashing event will also include a food truck and barbecue.

Those interested in donating pumpkins or becoming vendors can call Gagne at 306-317-8156 or email redbeardbeessk@gmail.com.

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Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com

This year’s theme is Smashing Pumpkins for Mental Health, which will be held at Meota Hall on Sept. 29. All the revenue from the event will go to CMHAB. They are mow looking for pumpkins donation. (photo/ Damien Gagne)

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If you or someone you know is in immediate danger of self-harm or experiencing suicidal thoughts, please contact:

Canada Suicide Prevention Service (1-833-456-4566), Saskatoon Crisis Intervention Service (306-933-6200), Prince Albert Mobile Crisis Unit (306-764-1011), Regina Mobile Crisis Services (306-525-5333) or the Hope for Wellness Help Line, which provides culturally competent crisis intervention counseling support for Indigenous peoples at (1-855-242-3310).