An event that brings awareness and support for those suffering from mental illness is coming to Maple Ridge this month.
The Mad Hatters Party will take place on Saturday, May 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Memorial Peace Park.
It’s billed as “Changing the Face of Mental Illness,” but it’s organized as fun, with live music and entertainment, tea and scones, speakers, and booths where supports in the community can be found.
Kids will find face painting, balloon animals, children’s entertainers and more. And there are of course hats.
Members of the public are invited to wear a hat they have created, or to make their own unique hat at the hat table.
The event will start at 10 a.m. with music, dancing and hat making. Then at 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. there will be a parade of hats around the park, including the Haney Farmers Market, with prizes for the best hats. And from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. will be the Mad Hatters Tea Part.
Organizer Catherine Larnon-Trout said the prep is nearly done and excitement’s brewing for an “unforgettable day of fun and raising awareness for mental illness!
“Join us as we break barriers, shatter, stigma, and spread compassion,” she said. “Let’s make every step count towards brighter, more understanding future.”
The Mad Hatters Foundation is a not-for-profit organization and is run by volunteers. Every dollar raised goes directly to the parade and tea party which is completely free for all – donations are accepted and directed to the BC Schizophrenia Society.
For more information or to make a donation contact Catherine at 604-308-1949, email: madhattersfoundation2017@gmail.com or go to madhattersfoundation.org.
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