Goshen Trust is raising funds to support its mental health services as it continues to face challenges securing enough sustainable funding to meet growing demand.

The organisation, which provides free mental health care and support, held a phonathon fundraising event on Saturday, 9 May.

Chief Executive Officer Naomi Eshraghi said the trust relies mainly on government funding, but it is not enough to sustain services year-round.

“Our main source of funding has been the government, but it’s not enough,” she said. 

“We turn to fundraising and support from businesses because our work is focused on providing care and services.”

She said Goshen Trust receives about $100,000 through the Ministry of Health budget, but it only covers part of the year’s operations.

Eshraghi said the organisation is fundraising in preparation for future uncertainty in funding.

“We are in preparation for the time when that funding runs out,” she said.

She said fundraising helps fund daily operations, including patient care, staff salaries, medication, therapeutic programmes, outreach, and mental health awareness programmes. 

She also highlighted staffing pressures, saying funding shortages are making it harder to recruit and keep staff.

“When we don’t have funding, staff are affected, and some leave because there is not enough support.”

Despite the challenges, Goshen Trust currently has 11 patients under care, with some returning home during the holidays to be with their families.

Eshraghi said community support is essential for both the organisation and wider mental health awareness.

“When we come together as a community, we acknowledge that mental health is important,” she said. 

“We share compassion, kindness, and positivity, and that helps increase wellness.”