Following up on my last article, I’d like to continue exploring the free programs that CMHA South Cariboo offers to the community. There has long been a stigma surrounding mental health, often preventing people from seeking the help they need. Part of my role at CMHA South Cariboo is to help break down that stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health and well-being.
Many of us grew up with the belief that talking about mental health struggles in public was not acceptable—that these challenges should be kept private, so no one knows what you’re going through. This stigma leaves many people feeling embarrassed or ashamed to share their struggles.
Through this article and the one before it, I hope to shed light on what we do at CMHA South Cariboo and help break the stigma surrounding mental health. We provide a safe, welcoming environment free of judgment or prejudice. Our programs are open to anyone in the community, whether you’re struggling with your mental well-being or supporting someone who is. All of our services are offered free of charge, and we are here to help.
You don’t need to be experiencing a mental illness to access our programs. Even if you simply have a question or need guidance on where to turn, we are here to support you.
First up this week is our Community Navigator Program. Our Community Navigator provides safe, confidential assistance to individuals while navigating a wide range of local services and resources. From Legal Aid BC applications to connecting clients with provincial and federal services, our program works closely with organizations like Interior Health, Work BC, RCMP, Victim Services, and local agencies to address unique and complex needs. As a Legal Aid Community Partner, we offer services such as legal aid applications, document faxing, and liaising with Legal Aid on behalf of clients.
Our Community Navigator program also supports clients with issues related to income assistance, disability benefits, and referrals for mental health, substance use, and other essential services. The Community Navigator Program provides advocacy, guidance through barriers like climate disaster recovery, and resources on topics such as seniors’ support, family issues, and Indigenous resources. If you need help navigating the system, our Community Navigator program is here to support you every step of the way. You can contact our Community Navigator, at the Office: 250-395-4883 local 202 or Cell: 250-948- 0269.
Next on the list is our Acquired Brain Injury Program. It is designed to support individuals who have experienced a brain injury and help them navigate the challenges that come with their recovery. This program offers personalized assistance to help clients improve their quality of life, regain independence, and access the resources they need. Through one-on-one support, they will help with goal setting, skill development, and connecting to community services and programs. Whether it's assistance with daily living tasks, finding employment opportunities, or fostering social connections, the Acquired Brain Injury Program is dedicated to supporting clients on their path to recovery and independence.
Access to the Acquired Brain Injury Program requires a referral from Interior Health MHSU. Once referred, prospective members will have an intake meeting with our Acquired Brain Injury program worker to determine the support that best meets their needs. For referrals, contact the Acquired Brain Injury Program at 250-644-3270.
Last and most certainly not least is our Clubhouse Program. Our Clubhouse is a welcoming space for individuals living with mental illness. Open Monday through Friday from 12 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., the Clubhouse provides a safe environment for social connection, personal growth, and community engagement. Participants enjoy daily nutritious meals, life skills workshops, and enriching activities tailored to individual interests, such as bowling, fishing, baking, and community outings.
Access to the Clubhouse is facilitated through a referral from Interior Health MHSU. Following a referral, prospective clients meet with our Clubhouse worker for an intake session to ensure they receive the support best suited to their needs. For referrals, contact MHSU Intake Services at 250-395-7676.
In addition to these programs, we also have a subsidized housing complex called Cariboo Terrace Trail which is located in 100 Mile House. The housing complex offers both subsidized units as well as low-end market units. The complex has a variety of units ranging from one bedroom to four bedrooms. These units are pet friendly with either one cat or dog. Applications for our housing complex can be found at our office at: 555B South Cedar Ave,100 Mile House, BC. If you wish to have an application emailed to you, please reach out to us by phone at 250-395-4883 and we would be happy to accommodate your request.
In addition to offering these amazing free programs, our office is always stocked with resources and staffed by knowledgeable team members who are here to help. Anyone is welcome to stop by and ask for assistance. Whether it’s our welcoming receptionist or any of our departments, we’re all happy to help and guide you in the right direction. If you’re unsure where to start, don’t hesitate to give us a call or visit our office—we’d be more than happy to assist you. We are located at: 555B South Cedar Ave,100 Mile House, BC (Located in the green building next to the ambulance station, beside the hospital)
Remember to be kind to yourself, practice self-care, and reach out for help if you need it.
If you need support, you can contact CMHA South Cariboo for mental health support at 250-395-4883. The office is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
