A local champion for mental health has received the province's second highest honour for working to better the lives of people within our community and beyond.

Maurice Rollins was bestowed the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship Wednesday night by Lieutenant Governor, The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell.

Rollins, a successful business leader, shared his lifetime battle with depression in his book 'The Incredible Journey of Maurice Rollins' then donated the proceeds to the Prince Edward Hastings branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association.  With his gift they established the Maurice Rollins Centre of Hope in Belleville that aims to help those stuggling with mental health.  In 2017, Rollins was awarded Belleville Chamber of Commerce’s Lifetime Achievement Award for his many contributions to the local economy, but above all, his philanthropy.

CMHA executive director Sandie Sidsworth said they were honoured to submit Rollins name for the Ontario Medal of Citizenship.

"Along with community letters of support we prepared a heart filled application and we are so pleased he has been honoured not only for his support of the CMHA but for so many other lives he touches with his faith in the community," she said.

Rollins was one of 11 recipients.

“On behalf of all people in Ontario, I am honoured to present the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship to this year’s outstanding recipients," said Lt. Governor Dowdeswell.  "These eleven individuals have improved the lives of people in their communities through years of selfless effort. Their compassion stands as an inspiration to us all and is a testament to the value of hard work and dedication.”

"Congratulations to the eleven exceptional recipients of this year's Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship," said Laura Albanese, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration.  "These individuals have made a difference in communities across the province through their commitment to helping others.  Their achievements should instill pride in us all."