King posted on Facebook today that the funding would relieve "such a heavy burden" and “enables us to maintain our promise to continue providing our fast and effective free counselling”.
“I’ll admit there have been some happy tears today,” he said.
King thanked the government for “pushing bureaucracy and any personal feelings aside” and thinking of children.
“Thank you to the team who work beside me, tirelessly behind the scenes, and who believe in the vision of a better future for our children,” he said.
“With all that is going on in the world here is a glimmer of hope for our children and for that I am beyond grateful.
“All the team at @gumbootfriday and @iamhope_nz are grateful and today our hearts are full.”
While on the campaign trail, incoming Prime Minister Christopher Luxon promised King $5m on the Rock Breakfast show.
Gumboot Friday, founded by the comedian and mental health advocate, is a free counselling service for any person in New Zealand aged 25 and under.
King said demand for Gumboot Friday services has skyrocketed by more than 500 per cent in just two years.
“From financing 550 monthly sessions in 2021 at $78,000, we now fund over 3400 free sessions at $510,000 monthly,” he said.
SUICIDE AND DEPRESSION
Where to get help:
• Lifeline: Call 0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP) (available 24/7)
• Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)
• Youth services: (06) 3555 906
• Youthline: Call 0800 376 633 or text 234
• What's Up: Call 0800 942 8787 (11am to 11pm) or webchat (11am to 10.30pm)
• Depression helpline: Call 0800 111 757 or text 4202 (available 24/7)
• Helpline: Need to talk? Call or text 1737
If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111
