Peeling for Change: The Raw Carrot Receives a Donation for Mental Health First Aid Training

From left to right: Paul, staff member, The Raw Carrot; Mary D'Alton, Executive Director, The Cowan Foundation; John, staff member, The Raw Carrot; Ashby, staff member, The Raw Carrot; Rebecca Sherbino, Co-Director, The Raw Carrot

The Cowan Foundation is pleased to donate $17,500 to The Raw Carrot, an organization that employs people with disabilities and mental health illness to produce high-end gourmet soup. 

The funds provided by the Foundation will be used for Mental Health First Aid training for staff since they play a critical role in creating a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for employees. 

Led by the Mental Health Commission of Canada, the Mental Health First Aid course will provide staff with the confidence and skills to recognize and engage with employees who have an emerging mental health problem or mental health crisis.

“Our Foundation was drawn to the mission of The Raw Carrot and the way they are changing lives for people with physical, mental and developmental disabilities through meaningful employment,” explained Mary D’Alton, Executive Director, The Cowan Foundation. “We are pleased to support Mental Health First Aid training for Kitchen Managers, Leadership Staff, and Kitchen Staff since it will provide them with the knowledge and tools they need to fully support those in the workplace who may experience mental health challenges. “

The Raw Carrot soups are currently sold at their kitchen locations in Paris, Kitchener, Mount Forest, and Innerkip, as well as various grocery retail locations in Southwestern Ontario.