DART Press Release
Dart has today announced a multi-year sponsorship of the Alex Panton Foundation (APF) to the tune of more than CI$138,000 toward supporting initiatives focused on helping children and young people struggling with mental illness in the Cayman Islands.
The Alex Panton Foundation has a particular focus on anxiety and depression among young adults and children. As part of the sponsorship from Dart, CI$40,000 each year for the next three years will help the non-profit organisation to facilitate an internationally recognised and evidence-based programme that builds emotional literacy in children aged five to 12 years old.
“Early emotional and social education is the foundation of a resilient and compassionate community. Equipping our youth with strong emotional literacy and healthy coping skills is not just beneficial – it’s essential,” said APF Executive Director Emily Kelly.
“We’re thrilled to have Dart’s support in this mission. Their investment in our emotional literacy programmes not only helps us reach more young people but also ensures the sustainability and growth of this critical initiative for years to come,” she added.
The foundation was established in 2018 in memory of Alex Panton, who succumbed to the effects of severe depression at the age of 16. The non-profit organisation aims to provide hope and resources to friends, family, teachers, classmates and carers to help save the lives of children and young adults struggling with mental illness.
“We recognise that many of our youth are facing mental health challenges. As we considered how we could play a meaningful role in addressing this concerning trend, it was evident that supporting the Alex Panton Foundation would help it make a bigger impact in the community,” said Dart Chief of Staff Joanne Lawson.
“We are pleased that with Dart’s support, the foundation will be able to further its work to eradicate the long-standing stigma around mental illness in the Cayman Islands through the power of education and awareness,” Lawson said, adding that she hoped other members of the business community would follow suit.
Additionally, the sponsorship will cover funding for additional training of APF’s master trainers for the Emotional Literacy Support programme in 2025. Further assistance will be provided over the next three years to bolster awareness about the Kids Helpline, a project created by the foundation that offers educational materials on mental health challenges and provides a confidential emotional support listening service by trained volunteers.
The Kids Helpline, a confidential and anonymous service staffed by trained volunteers, can be accessed online at kidshelpline.ky or by downloading an app via an iOS or Android mobile device. It provides a wealth of information on mental health topics, including signs of struggle, coping tools and tips on accessing support.
In addition to its emotional literacy programme and the Kids Helpline, the Alex Panton Foundation undertakes a variety of initiatives to improve the mental health of children and young adults in the Cayman Islands through advocacy, awareness and support. For further information visit alexpantonfoundation.ky.
