Campaign makes connection with mental health support
Saanich NewsApr 24, 2017
It’s been said that mental health is an invisible issue, with those suffering its effects outside the view of society as a whole. One local group has a vision to address the problem, one that will provide a supportive environment dedicated to creating opportunity and purpose for those dealing with mental health challenges.
“It’s a rehabilitation program that offers space for people, 18 and over, with issues such as depression, bipolar, schizophrenia. They can socialize and collaborate with each other to better one another’s lives,” said
“Everything is under one roof – employment, education, housing, social – guiding people through social inclusion to lead happy and productive lives,” Powell said.
While the
facility won’t initially have a housing component, Powell hopes it will be able to direct members to subsidized housing options in the community.
She said Clubhouse can guide people towards education and employment, offering transitional employment with business partners in the community.
“Those jobs usually last six to nine months. By the time you’ve done that, you’ve got your confidence back and your self-esteem is improving and you have something to fill in on your resume.”
But a lot of hard work still lies ahead. Powell estimates that
“It includes everything, the rent, staff, training, everything. It sounds like a lot of money, but when you consider what it can do, it’s worth the price.”
Powell said there is an estimate mental illness costs the Greater Victoria economy
“Pathways has a societal return on investment of 14 to 1. Every
Despite the value of the Clubhouse facility, Powell realizes raising the funds for the facility will be no easy task and won’t happen overnight.
“Our goal is to have it tomorrow if we could. I keep buying lottery tickets,” she said with a laugh.
However, a number of local groups and individuals have rallied to the cause, with the Victoria chapter of 100 Women Who Care recently raising
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