About The Pathstone Foundation

About The Pathstone Foundation

Pathstone Foundation has been a cornerstone in supporting children's mental health services across the Niagara region for over five decades. Established to bolster the efforts of Pathstone Mental Health, the Foundation has played a pivotal role in funding and expanding essential programs and facilities.

Our Mission

Pathstone Foundation is dedicated to raising essential funds to support programs and services aimed at enhancing the mental health of children across Niagara.

Our Vision

To strengthen the quality of life for children, youth, and families dealing with mental health challenges.

For over 50 years, Pathstone Mental Health has been providing care to children, youth, and families across Niagara. What began as a small community initiative has grown into the region’s leading provider of mental health services for young people, offering innovative programs and compassionate support to those in need.

Pathstone Mental Health traces its origins back to the 1960s when a group of dedicated community members recognized the urgent need for child-focused mental health services in the Niagara region. Over the decades, the organization evolved to meet the growing and changing needs of children and youth, expanding its reach and refining its approach to mental health care.

In 2007, a significant milestone was reached when the Niagara Child and Youth Services officially rebranded as Pathstone Mental Health. This transformation marked a new era of mental health service delivery, focusing on accessible, family-centered, and evidence-based care.

To further strengthen its impact, Pathstone Foundation was established as the fundraising arm of Pathstone Mental Health, ensuring sustainable funding for vital programs and expanding access to mental health services.

A major leap forward came in 2017 with the opening of the Branscombe Centre in St. Catharines. This state-of-the-art facility became the new home for Pathstone’s administrative offices, treatment programs, and walk-in clinic. Designed to provide a welcoming and stigma-free environment, the centre set a new standard for mental health care in the region.

In response to the increasing demand for services, Pathstone expanded its presence with the creation of multiple satellite locations, including:

Rotary House

Rotary House

A live-in treatment facility offering intensive residential care.

River House

River House

Opened in 2023 in Welland to better serve families in Niagara South.

10 Walk-In Clinics

Providing immediate access to mental health support across the region.

Additionally, Pathstone Foundation addressed current community gaps and worked to address them including:

Mountainview Natural Playground

A therapeutic outdoor space designed to promote healing through play and connection with nature.

Mountainview Centre for Innovative Learning

A state-of-the-art educational facility supporting alternative learning environments for children facing mental health challenges.

Our Staff

Marla Smith, CFRE

Director, Foundation & Communications

905-688-6850 x 102
msmith@pathstone.ca

Michelle Begin

Manager, Marketing & Community Development

905-688-6850 x 198
mbegin@pathstone.ca

Carling Wright

Donor Relations Specialist

905-688-6850 x 143
cwright@Pathstone.ca

Linda Vespoli-Burch

Volunteer Coordinator

905-688-6850 x 98
lvburch@Pathstone.ca