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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
“We want to make it easier for people with mental illness to access government programs and services,” said Coleman. “This program will enable people with mental illness to participate more fully at home, at work or in their communities by improving access to supports such as mental health services and a higher level of income assistance.”
The Canadian Mental Health Association’s BC Division (CMHA)
will use the funding to help people with mental illnesses apply and qualify for
a variety of programs and services. CMHA community navigators will work with
homeless outreach workers to identify people who may require assistance, and to
help them to fill out application forms, secure accommodation, and find doctors
who can assess and treat their mental illnesses.
The program will focus on people currently receiving income assistance,
who may also be eligible for higher levels of income support, such as persons
with persistent multiple barriers or persons with disabilities, through the BC
Employment and Assistance Program. It
will operate regionally though five CHMA BC branches in Kelowna, Kootenays,
North and West Vancouver, Williams Lake / 100 Mile House, and Prince George.
“We’re excited to build on our work over the last several years connecting people facing mental illness, homelessness and other challenges to basic income and community supports,” said Bev Gutray, executive director of CMHA BC Division. “Our goal is to ensure people with mental illness who face barriers to community participation receive the support they deserve, and our branch staff is uniquely positioned to help people take the next steps to get that support.”
The pilot will also help people to develop personal plans that maintain and improve their mental health. Personal plans will include developing social networks, using web-based technology such as Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network (PLAN), and linking clients to community organizations for volunteering or employment.
Today’s funding announcement is
another step in the Province’s efforts to build the best system of support in
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Contact: |
Seumas
Gordon Media
Relations, Ministry
of Housing and Social Development 250
387-6490 |
Jennifer
Quan Communications,
CMHA, 1 800
555-8222 604-688-3234 |
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For more information on government services or to subscribe to the Province’s news feeds using RSS, visit the Province’s website at www.gov.bc.ca. |
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