CHATSWORTH, Calif.—Adult industry mental health resource Pineapple Support has launched a fundraising campaign to raise money for mental health services, as part of Mental Health Month this May. The organization is hosting a competition to encourage performers to help raise funds and break the stigma around mental health in the adult industry.
The competition, which runs until May 31, charges performers with creating their own fundraising pages to support those struggling with mental health issues. To help challenge the stigma around the topic, performers are asked to share their personal story of why they want to raise funds to support mental health, either in written or video form on the fundraising page.
The performer who raises the most money will win a hamper of natural pamper products worth $250. The winner will be announced on May 31, 2021 when the competition ends.
"This year, the theme for Mental Health Month is ‘Nature’ and we would like to take this opportunity to unite with you, our supporters, therapists and friends, to help spread the word about what mental health means to you and break down the stigma surrounding it," says Leya Tanit, founder and president of Pineapple Support. “We are asking you, our supporters, to donate what you can to help us continue providing our much needed resources. Whether you create your own fundraiser, donate or merely share our fundraising page, you can help us to create a healthier and happier adult industry.”
Tanit founded Pineapple Support in 2018, after a string of losses in the adult industry from depression and other mental illnesses. The organization, which is a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization in the United States, has so far connected over 2,000 adult performers to mental health services, including free and low-cost therapy, counseling and emotional support.
“May is Mental Health Month, a time to speak up, support, educate and unite,” says Kelly Jones, AMFT, Pineapple Support therapist. “We want people to help break the stigma surrounding mental health. The more we talk about it, the less shame and stigma there is.”
To donate to Pineapple Support’s fundraising campaign, click here.
Those wishing to create their own fundraising page and enter the competition can do so here.