Improving the health and well-being of Manitobans has always been our mission here at Manitoba Blue Cross. From launching our online wellness library, Live Well / Be Well blog and Your Wellness Moment video series to developing our wellness team of internal experts, we continually expand our efforts through new initiatives that support members and all Manitobans.

That is why we are thrilled to announce the Colour of Caring Healthy CommUnity Challenge, which will be awarding $25,000 to help bring to life a creative idea that supports the mental health of Manitobans. This new initiative strives to encourage passionate people to support their community and strive to make positive change.

Individuals, groups, teams or workplaces are invited to enter. Submissions must aim to do one of the following:

‍Address a unique need that enhances mental health in the community. ‍

At Manitoba Blue Cross, we acknowledge that one size does not fit all when addressing and supporting the health and well-being of those across the province. By addressing a unique need that enhances mental health in the community, Manitobans can get creative and think outside the box with their submissions.

Support mental fitness and help reduce mental health challenges.

We understand that fitness goes beyond just the physical. Maintaining a strong, healthy mind allows people to handle all of the challenges and opportunities that life puts in front of them. We look forward to some submissions that will include ideas that emphasize a proactive approach to supporting mental fitness and helping to reduce mental health challenges in Manitobans.

Create accessible and culturally appropriate mental health services for a targeted community. ‍

We recognize that an individual or group’s culture, beliefs, values, race and sexual identity can shape their perceptions and experiences regarding mental health. These differences might influence the types of treatment and supports that are needed or preferred. That is why we believe it is essential to consider identity when creating mental health supports to ensure the supports are accessible and culturally appropriate. We hope that some of the submissions include innovative, actionable ideas on ways to improve access and provide better mental health supports for targeted communities and cultural groups.

‍Reduce mental health stigma and promote awareness and understanding.

Despite how common mental health concerns are, they continue to be met with a widespread stigma that often makes people reluctant to discuss them with family members, friends, employers or even medical professionals. This can likely cause someone to conceal their mental health concerns, acting as a barrier to seeking help. We hope that some of the submissions will aim to reduce stigma, helping the community gain perspective and learn about various mental health concerns and the recovery process.

Challenge submissions are due by September 14, 2022. A panel of Manitoba Blue Cross judges will select the top entries, and the shortlist will be posted on the Manitoba Blue Cross website for public voting. All Manitobans will have a chance to vote for their favourite idea from October 12 to November 2, 2022. The idea with the most public votes will be declared the winner on November 16, 2022.

Learn more about the HealthyCommUnity Challenge and submit your idea here: mb.bluecross.ca/communitychallenge.