We're here to help.

That's the message being sent by Portage Collegiate Institute's Sources of Strength Group this week, as they host a number of activities to raise awareness of their work. Events kicked off today with classroom activities and a photo booth, and will continue throughout the week with a number of different activities such as speakers and yoga, and even a 'Healthy Activities Tournament'. Emily Capner's a member of the SOS Group, and says it's important all students are aware of the services they can provide.

"High school is when a lot of issues can happen, depression or you can get anxiety. You want somebody to come talk to. The SOS and the Peer Helpers can kind of guide you a bit, and just make you feel like you have someone your age to talk to, and that you're not alone. This week should help a lot."

Capner says many students within the school are unaware of what the group's focuses are, which range from suicide prevention to general peer support. She's personally seen the work of the group, noting she became involved with SOS after they showed support when she was a new student.

"I was new last year and I didn't really know a lot of people. They kind of reached out to me, and the club was a way for me to get more comfortable with the school and make new friends. I feel strongly about the club because I like helping out, and I feel like it's a good message to promote."

She says feedback from students who are aware of their services has been positive so far, and they hope to see their profile increase within PCI throughout this week.