Last year, Canada Post set out to eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness so that those affected feel more able to discuss their challenges and seek solutions. We established the Canada Post Foundation for Mental Health, collecting donations at retail counters last fall during Mental Illness Awareness Week, and through the sale of a semi-postal (fundraising) stamp. Thanks to the generous support of Canadians, Canada Post has raised 1.2 million dollars for the Foundation over the past year, more than $300,000 of which came from the sale of the stamp. Funds will be used to help communities deliver mental health services to those in need, and to support families facing the challenges of mental illness.
The stamp, which features natural scenery flowing through the outline of a human figure, was designed by Vancouver’s Signals Design Group. A tree was chosen as the stamp’s central element because it symbolizes health, growth and maturity, all attainable for people affected by mental illness. The shape of the tree refers subtly to the human brain, while the path progresses towards better health and a fulfilled life. “I thought of this as a moment of hope for this individual—a moment when the clouds break and the sun shines through,” explains John Belisle, Creative Director at Signals.
- Date of issue: 14/Sep/2009
- Printing process: Lithography in 7 colours
- Stamp size: 24.75 mm. x 35.25 mm.
- Sheets: booklet of 10 stamps
Visit Canada Post's online shop.
Notes
1. "Mental health". Details. Ottawa, Canada Post, XVIII(4):6-7.
1. "Mental health". Details. Ottawa, Canada Post, XVIII(4):6-7.
Posts
