FCSS hosting Women’s Mental Health Workshop in Low German

Posted on April 9, 2026 by admin

By Garrett Simmons
FCSS Communications

It’s often difficult to know who to turn to, or what to do, when you’re experiencing mental-health struggles.

That situation can be exacerbated when you are a little isolated, away from an urban community.

With that in mind, Southern Alberta Kanadiers Association (SAKA), with the assistance of Family and Community Support Services, The County of Lethbridge Community Learning Council and Healthier Together, is hosting a Women’s Mental Health Workshop in Low German, designed specifically for those living in rural areas.

The event, set for April 22 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Barons School, will feature mental health presentations, crafts and activities and mental health toolkit giveaways.

Melanie Patenaude, vice-chair of SAKA, said the April 22 event has a few clear goals in mind.

“We aim to increase mental health awareness and decrease the stigma surrounding mental health, by introducing strategies for them that align with their cultural beliefs.”

This will be the second year for the workshop, as Patenaude added the 2024 event was very well attended. The hope is this year’s event will result in another full house.

“It was very well received last year,” said Patenaude, who added organizers felt justified by the participation level displayed by the Low German community throughout the event, held in Coaldale.

The formula for 2026 is much the same, as FCSS presenters, who can converse in both English and Low German, will aim to deliver valuable information.

“The other goals are to help increase their coping skills, increase those community connections and increase their confidence in addressing their mental health and letting them know who they can reach out to if they need assistance,” said Patenaude.

For Low German Mennonite women in rural areas, the strain can be even more acute at times, juggling family, isolation and other pressures.

“It is important for us to help them understand that these women take care of everyone in their families, and they need to take the time to take care of themselves too, in order to help them take care of others,” said Patenaude.

That is just one of the messages she hopes will shine through on April 22, at an event made possible with funds from the Community Foundation of Lethbridge and Southwestern Alberta, through the Henry S. Varley Fund for Rural Life initiative.

Childcare will also be provided on site, along with lunch and snacks.

For more information, on the conference, or to register, contact Tina Meggison at 403-308-8373.