Silver Linings Foundation offers support systems to bridge gaps in the care of eating disorders in Alberta. We got to speak with Kenzie Dutka to find out more about them.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
Silver Linings Foundation works collaboratively to bridge gaps in the care of eating disorders in Alberta. By creating a world-class live-in eating disorder treatment centre and offering accessible support groups and resources, Silver Linings aims to eliminate any barriers to support for those experiencing an eating disorder.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Currently, approximately 2.7 million Canadians are experiencing an eating disorder (source: Galmiche et al. (2019), and during the first wave of the pandemic alone, monthly cases of anorexia increased by more than 60 percent (source: Holly Agostino, MD, CM1; Brett Burstein, MD, CM, Ph.D., MPH2,3; Dina Moubayed, MD, CM4; et al).
Everyone deserves accessible care. A world-class, live-in eating disorder treatment centre would eliminate many of the barriers that individuals and families currently face while seeking support. Silver Linings Foundation also offers professional support groups and valuable resources for those in need.
When did you start/join it?
Silver Linings was founded in 2014 by Albertans personally invested in eating disorder recovery.
What made you want to get involved?
Our board members personally experienced the devastation that eating disorders can cause within the lives of families, and came together based on the truths that recovery is possible and everyone deserves access to the care they need.
What was the situation like when you started?
When Silver Linings set out on the journey to build the treatment centre, out-of-province treatment was costing upwards of $1,000 per day and many did not have access to proper care.
How has it changed since?
Although the pandemic has increased barriers to care for many, communities have made great strides towards raising awareness and breaking the stigma surrounding eating disorders. Albertans are beginning to understand that having access to proper care is now more important than ever.
Silver Linings now has a Hub in a historical character house in Calgary’s Beltline, where our professional practitioners host a variety of support groups and valuable resources can be found.
What more needs to be done?
When it comes to eating disorder care, the work is never done. As the need for accessible care continues to grow, so must awareness around the severity of this devastating mental illness. As a community, coming together to spread the word is so impactful.
How can our readers help?
Donations help ensure our support groups are accessible to all who need them. Donating today can make a huge difference in the lives of many. We also have many volunteer opportunities available, so be sure to check out how you can get involved.
Do you have any events coming up?
Although we don’t currently have any upcoming events planned, be sure to follow along with us as many important initiatives unfold throughout the year!
Where can we follow you?
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn for news, updates on support groups, eating disorder facts and more. Our socials are full of resources that can be easily shared with anyone who may be struggling.
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
Among many others, we love the Eating Disorder Support Network of Alberta (EDSNA) and the Lionheart Foundation, both of whom are making a huge difference in the lives of many.
