BMO Presents the 2022 Walk so Kids Can Talk Supporting Young People Across Canada

TORONTO, April 27, 2022

Thousands of kids, adults, schools, community organizations and corporations come together to take part in Canada's largest walk supporting children's mental health and well-being. Since 2013, BMO employees have raised a total of $23.7 million for Kids Help Phone and expect that total to grow to $25 million this year.

"While the pandemic and the uncertainty arising from the global environment has impacted us all, younger members of our families, many of whom were disconnected from the social connections vital to their development, have felt these pressures even more acutely," said Sharon Haward-Laird, General Counsel, BMO Financial Group and National Walk Co-Champion. "Guided by our Purpose – to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life – BMO is proud to be the founding partner of Kids Help Phone and presenting sponsor of Walk so Kids Can Talk since 2013, supporting their commitment to provide children with the resources they require as the need for mental health services continues to increase during these challenging times."

"We are grateful for BMO's leadership in mobilizing communities across Canada to support the mental and emotional health of all young people and caring adults in Canada," said Katherine Hay, President and CEO, Kids Help Phone. "This year, we focus on the resilience of our youth and the courage it takes to reach out for support; Kids Help Phone will continue to empower youth and maximize access for whenever and however they need us."

Kids Help Phone is Canada's only 24/7 national service offering professional counselling, information and referrals, and volunteer-led text-based support for young people. Its free, anonymous and confidential services are available in both English, French and Arabic. The donations raised from the Walk are crucial to maintaining this valuable service and ensuring every young person can access the support they need, in the way they need it most.

For those who are interested in making a contribution or signing up for this year's in-person or virtual events, please visit www.walksokidscantalk.ca and, join the social conversation using #WalksoKidsCanTalk.

Locations
WHEN: Sunday, May 1, 2022
*All times local