Your kids might need this important help.
Morning from the Valley — here's what's growing in Winkler-Morden.
Okay, friends, this story really hit home for me, and I think it will for many of you across the Pembina Valley. We're talking about Kaylee Maendel, a Hutterite teen from southern Manitoba who bravely shared her journey of seeking help for mental health challenges. She called a kids' help line, and now she’s telling everyone that if you’re in crisis, you should too. This isn't just a story about one person; it's a testament to the quiet strength and evolving understanding within our communities, even those often seen as insular.
Kaylee's experience really underscores something critical for us here, especially with our strong agricultural roots and close-knit communities, including the Hutterite colonies that dot our landscape from Altona to Carman. Mental health is a conversation we need to keep having, openly and without stigma. It shows that resources are available, and reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.
### Why This Matters for Winkler-Morden
* **Community Support:** It highlights the need for continued support and awareness for mental health services, both inside and outside traditional community structures. * **Youth Focus:** Our young people, whether they're going to Northlands Parkway Collegiate or Morden Collegiate, need to know there are places to turn when things get tough. * **Breaking Barriers:** Stories like Kaylee's help break down barriers and show that seeking help is normal and effective, regardless of your background.
We're a region built on hard work and community, but we also need to ensure we're supporting the mental well-being of everyone, especially our youth. This is part of the growth we’re seeing in Winkler-Morden – not just in manufacturing at Decor Cabinets or Triple E RV, but in how we care for each other. We're proud of our growth and our welcome to newcomers, and that includes fostering a community where everyone feels safe to seek help.
Corinne Dueck, Morning Wire, Winkler-Morden.
The whole crew on the morning show dives deeper into these important discussions — catch it live at mornings.live.