A Message from our Executive Director
Hi everyone,
Please have no doubt that our organization will not abandon you during this time of isolation and worry. We are here for you and we hope we always will be.
But the way we connect with you will have to change – temporarily.
Whereas you once visited us in person, you can now expect to hear from us virtually or by phone.
I know it will be a challenge to figure this out and have it feel comfortable and intimate but we believe we can get there. How do I know? Because I’m doing it and it’s okay.
Last week I met with my counsellor online for the first time (we had met previously in person). It more than met my expectations. I had a great session and when I shut down my browser I felt hopeful and heard. It was safe and convenient, and comfortable too. Admittedly, I did have to ask my family to get out of the house so I could have some privacy, but the dog needed walking anyhow.
Today, our team has decided to temporarily close our Blenz Hope Café, our Kelty Mental Health Resource Centre, and our Lonsdale office. We made this decision to maintain staff health. It will also allow us to refocus our efforts on serving our mental health housing clients who depend on us for care, medication management and meals.
This is the first of a few communications. Give us a couple of days and we will make sure you know how to connect with our peer support workers, our family navigator, our counsellors and the rest of our amazing team. In the meantime, here are our direct contact details if you need to reach us.
Let’s choose to weather these difficult times and learn something new. Do all you can do to stay healthy and enjoy the birds and the cherry blossoms. Take time to offer help to your neighbours and reach out to friends and family (and us!). We’re here.
On behalf of all of us at CMHA. In service,
Julia Kaisla
Executive Director, CMHA NWV
