By Goya Dmytryshchak
Schoolchildren will be among the beneficiaries of this Sunday’s ‘Walk a Mile in my Shoes’ mental health awareness event at Williamstown.
Mental health practitioner Justine Brogna, who is hosting the annual walk for the second year, said funds would be used to create wellbeing spaces at three schools: Altona Meadows Primary School, St Augustine’s at Yarraville and St Mary’s at Williamstown.
“They are three schools that have indicated a desire to have a wellbeing space,” Ms Brogna said.
“Essentially, it’s a retreat area that kids can go to for sensory interests – they probably have a fish tank in there, books, plants, music, mindfulness activities.
“So, it’s a nice space for kids to be creative.
“Also, for kids that are having some struggles – maybe some anxiety or some friendship issues – it’s an area they can go to and do some quiet reading without feeling lost in the playground.”
More than 1000 people attended last year’s inaugural walk.
People are being urged to wear something green, the official colour for mental health, in honour of those experiencing mental health-related issues.
There will be live performances, raffles, information stalls, children’s football clinics, a sausage sizzle and a jumping castle.
The Walk a Mile in my Shoes event is on Sunday, October 13 from 9am-noon at Williamstown’s Commonwealth Reserve.
Details: facebook.com/walkamileinmy shoeswilliamstown
