Sparbanksstiftelsen Skaraborg Launches 3 Million Kronor Initiative to Improve Mental Health

Sparbanksstiftelsen Skaraborg has committed 3 million kronor to support mental health projects in the municipalities of Skara, Vara, Götene, and Essunga as part of its 25th anniversary celebrations. This funding aims to enhance the quality of life by addressing mental health, which the foundation identifies as one of the major societal challenges today.

The foundation's chairperson, Liselotte J Sterneborn, emphasized that mental health impacts everyone, directly or indirectly. She expressed the foundation's intention to enable initiatives that promote mental well-being and foster sustainable health across all age groups. Sterneborn highlighted existing local efforts by various organizations to support individuals' mental health and stated that the foundation’s funding will back projects focusing on social support, preventive measures, and creating long-term positive change in the region.

This mental health initiative is part of a broader commitment during the foundation’s anniversary year, which has already seen 25 million kronor distributed to various local initiatives including culture, elder care, and community centers — all efforts aimed at building a stronger, more inclusive, and sustainable Skaraborg.

Alongside Sterneborn, key social sector leaders gathered to discuss the initiative and regional collaboration. These include Monica Johansson, head of care administration in Skara; Maja Larsson, social sector development leader in Essunga; Victoria Fransson, social chief in Götene; Sverker Andersson, social chief in Vara municipality; and Linda Svantesson, Vara’s first social worker. Their involvement underscores the cooperative regional approach to improving health and lifestyle outcomes.

By strategically investing in mental health projects and engaging local experts, Sparbanksstiftelsen Skaraborg aims to fortify community well-being and promote mental wellness for individuals throughout the Skaraborg region.