Sean Mauerhoff Community Fund
The Sean Mauerhoff Community Fund was created to support individuals who have a diagnosed mental illness, working to improve quality of life and bring small joys to those who struggled as Sean did.
The Sean Mauerhoff Community Fund was created to support individuals who have a diagnosed mental illness, working to improve quality of life and bring small joys to those who struggled as Sean did.
In Memory of Sean: Supporting Individuals on Their Mental Health Journey
“Mom, there’s something wrong with me.”
Sean was just twelve years old when he said these words to his mom in the middle of the night. It was a very simple statement, but it was the beginning of a long, hard journey for both of them.
Sean was later diagnosed with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder, a condition that would make his life a constant struggle. Sean had tremendous strength and courage, but he faced bullying at school, barriers in the workplace later in his life, and isolation within the community. For Lucy, her grief and heartbreak over her son’s suffering was made greater by a lack of support and guidance for parents like her.
Sean was not defined by his illness. He was kind, respectful and deeply loving and compassionate of all especially his mom. He fought with a bravery that few were ever privy to.
On September 22, 2023, Sean passed away suddenly from an undiagnosed heart condition probably brought on by years of anxiety attacks. Though his life ended much too soon, his story lives on through Lucy’s advocacy and through the programs she helped bring to life – CMHA’s Saskatoon Coming Home Supported Housing program and the Short-Stay unit at RUH.
Now in Sean’s name, we are raising funds to bring small joys to people walking a similar path to his.
The goal of Sean’s fund is to improve the quality of life for individuals who have a diagnosed mental illness and are also on the SAID program for income.
The fund provides access to grants that may support the small joys in life that these individuals cannot afford and which are not covered by other funding streams.
Sean’s fund was founded by his mother, Lucy, to honour his life as someone whose life was a testament to the struggles, resilience, and compassion of people affected by mental health issues.
The Impact of Sean's Fund
One Fund. Real People. Immediate Impact.
Sean’s Fund provides timely, compassionate support to individuals facing barriers that directly affect their mental health, safety, and stability. This flexible fund responds to real-life needs that often fall outside traditional funding—meeting people where they are, when it matters most. The stories below reflect the powerful, one-page snapshot of the difference Sean’s Fund makes every day.
Restoring Calm, Dignity, and Safety
A Clean Home, A Clear Mind
When a client was diagnosed with a mobility-related illness, keeping her home clean became overwhelming and a major source of anxiety. Sean’s Fund covered a one-time house cleaning. She shared that she felt like she could “breathe again,” experiencing less stress and anxiety and finally feeling at peace in her own home.
Life-Saving Support in Crisis
Emergency Pet Care During a Mental Health Crisis
A client experiencing suicidal ideation shared she would not accept emergency help unless her dog—her primary source of comfort—was safe. Sean’s Fund covered urgent pet care, allowing her to access life-saving mental health support. She later shared that knowing her dog was safe made all the difference.
Supporting Independence and Livelihoods
Snow Blower for a Small Business Owner
A client received a snowblower through Sean’s Fund—equipment he could not afford on his own. This support allowed him to continue operating his small business, reduced strain on his body, and enabled him to take on more work each day, protecting both his income and physical health.
Rebuilding Connection and Sense of Self
Travel Support for a 40th High School Reunion
Sean’s Fund provided a gas allowance so a client could attend his 40th high school reunion—an opportunity he feared he might never have again. The experience allowed him to reconnect with friends and proudly share his life today, including his mental health journey, marriage, and passions. He described the experience as deeply empowering.
Creating Meaningful Moments with Loved Ones
Flight Assistance for Family Milestones
A client was able to travel home for her 40th high school reunion and her father’s 80th birthday—two rare, overlapping milestones. Sean’s Fund covered airfare, making the trip possible. She expressed deep gratitude for the chance to create joyful memories and spend precious time with her aging father.
Reducing Financial Stress Around Basic Needs
Grocery Support
A grocery card helped ease immediate financial pressure for a client, ensuring access to basic necessities during a difficult period.
Why Sean's Fund Matters
Sean’s Fund does more than provide financial assistance—it reduces stress, preserves dignity, strengthens connection, supports independence, and, in critical moments, saves lives. Its flexibility allows for immediate impact and compassionate care.
The impact is immediate. The outcomes are lasting.
