The Canadian Mental Health Association of Northern BC (CMHA) has been awarded a total of $75,000 in funding to conduct critical community-based research on mental illness, homelessness, and the unique challenges faced by seniors with mental health concerns in Prince George.
Addressing Mental Illness and Homelessness
SPARC BC’s Homelessness Community Action Grants program has provided $50,000 to support research on the intersection of mental illness and homelessness. This project will shed light on the lived experiences of individuals facing mental illness and housing discrimination, highlighting systemic barriers that contribute to housing insecurity. By centering the voices of those with lived experience, CMHA aims to inform policy, enhance service delivery, and advocate for meaningful change that ensures equitable access to safe and stable housing.
Supporting Seniors’ Mental Health
Additionally, CMHA has received $25,000 in funding through the New Horizons for Seniors Program from Employment and Social Development Canada. This initiative will explore the mental health needs of older adults in Prince George, many of whom experience social isolation, stigma, and difficulty accessing appropriate care. The findings will help guide the development of services tailored to seniors’ mental health and well-being.
Driving Meaningful Change
“We recognize that mental illness and homelessness are deeply interconnected, and too often, people facing these challenges encounter stigma and structural barriers that prevent them from accessing the support they need,” said Dr. Elaine Laberge, Executive Director of CMHA of Northern BC, in a news release. “With this funding, we will amplify the voices of those experiencing housing discrimination and bring much-needed attention to the mental health struggles of seniors in our community. This research will help drive meaningful action and impactful change.”
Public Presentation of Findings
The findings of both research projects will be shared publicly through engaging videos, photographs, and comprehensive reports that showcase the lived experiences of participants. By visually and narratively capturing these realities, CMHA aims to foster greater public awareness, reduce stigma, and influence policies that support mental health and housing equity.
Call for Project Partners & Sponsors
CMHA of Northern BC is actively seeking project partners who can support these research initiatives through in-kind contributions, such as video production, or monetary sponsorships. Sponsors and partners will receive extensive marketing coverage, ensuring visibility and recognition for their contributions. Organizations and individuals interested in supporting this important work are encouraged to reach out.