Community members can donate, cheer on runners or join for a lap of Centennial Park

This July, the Central Saanich Police Service is shining a spotlight on the Saanich Peninsula Youth Clinic. 

Corporal Pat Bryant and Police Board Member Sarah Riddell are going the distance—literally—to raise awareness and funds for the Youth Clinic. This is the only clinic of its kind on the Peninsula, where young people aged 12 to 24 can get free and confidential support for any medical concern—no referral, health card, or parental accompaniment required.
 

Starting at noon on Saturday, July 19, Pat and Sarah are running a 4.64-kilometre loop of Centennial Park every hour in this year’s CS Police 24-Hour Backyard Ultra. The goal of the run is to rally local support for a valuable community resource. This year, that’s the Youth Clinic.

“Young people on the Peninsula deserve care that is welcoming, accessible, and built around their needs,” said Sarah Riddell, who also serves as the Director of Development at Shoreline Medical Society. “This clinic helps them navigate so many challenges—from mental health to sexual health to basic primary care. We’re running to make sure this kind of support is here for them, when and where they need it.” 
 

Everyone is welcome to come out to Centennial Park to cheer on Pat and Sarah, join in for a lap or two, and help raise funds to keep the Youth Clinic thriving. The Clinic relies almost entirely on community funding. “Whether you walk, run, or simply show your support, your presence—and your donation—will make a real difference,” said Sarah Riddell.
 

“Accessible mental health care is a huge part of what this clinic offers—and right now, that’s more important than ever for our youth,” added Corporal Pat Bryant. “By supporting the Youth Clinic, we’re investing in a healthier, stronger future for the whole community.”
 

More information: Community members can donate at Shoreline-medical-cspolice-backyard-ultra or visit shorelinemedical.ca/youth-clinic for more information. For free health education and medical appointments, youth can call 250-656-4143 or visit the Youth Clinic in-person at 2A – 2379 Bevan Avenue in Sidney.