A key youth mental health program in Fort St. John is at risk of ending, raising concerns over a gap in local services. Peace River North MLA Jordan Kealy has called on the province to keep the program running.
During the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia’s question period on October 9, Kealy urged Health Minister Josie Osborne to renew the contract with Saplings Mental Health Services. Saplings has partnered with Northern Health since 2021, offering counselling, psychiatric care, group programs, and support for parents.
Kealy described the program as filling a “vital gap” in the region. Each year, more than 100 children and youth rely on its services for mental health support.
“This leaves children and youth who need ongoing mental health support with no services, essentially returning to the very crisis that led to Saplings’ creation in the first place,” Kealy said.
Northern Health is reportedly set to terminate the contract with Saplings in March 2026. Efforts to confirm this with the health authority are ongoing.
In response to Kealy’s questions, Osborne recognized the importance of youth mental health, especially in rural areas.
“Northern Health takes this issue very seriously, as do I,” Osborne said. “[We are] committed to working with [Kealy], learning more about the particular situation he raises and continuing to build a system of care that enables early intervention and prevention.”
The province has been expanding youth mental health services through initiatives like Foundry centres and integrated child and youth teams across B.C.
Eryn Collins, Northern Health’s regional director of public affairs, confirmed the authority’s appreciation for its partnership with Saplings while highlighting future plans.
“Northern Health has implemented a new child and youth mental health and substance use regional support team,” Collins said.
“This team provides virtual assistance to emergency departments, including in Fort St. John, for assessment, treatment planning, consultation, and resource navigation. Children and youth experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis will continue to receive care in their home community.”
Following the legislative session, Kealy reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the program. In a Facebook post, he stated:
“I look forward to working with Josie Osborne to find a solution to make sure our youth are protected. I will continue to fight tooth and nail for our region.”
Northern Health has assured that consultation and treatment will gradually transition to the regional support team, aiming to maintain care continuity for Fort St. John’s youth.
Efforts to reach Saplings for comment were not immediately successful.
The program’s uncertain future has sparked local concern, highlighting the ongoing need for accessible youth mental health services in Northern British Columbia.
