The Lower Similkameen Community Services Society (LSCSS), committed to promoting and providing programs that enhance quality of life by improving the social conditions, housing, health and education of local citizens, recently received a cheque for $1,820 from Valley First Credit Union for their Adult Mental Health Program.
Gustavson House is one of LSCSS’s programs which provides a meeting place, opportunities for vocational skill development, and a hot meal to adults suffering from mental illness. The aim of the program is to assist in the recovery process by providing socialization and a safe place for clients to connect with each other. During the weekly meeting support is provided, topics of interest are discussed, education is provided, and a hot meal is shared.
The $1,820 grant from the Valley First Community Endowment will allow for expansion of the meal program for LSCSS’s Adult Mental Health clients.
This funding will provide an additional meal for clients to take home with them. Individuals struggling with mental health issues often face multiple barriers including planning, shopping, and food preparation.
The goal of the Adult Mental Health program at Gustavson House is to improve the lives of its clients, in part through better nutrition education and support to help in recovery from their illness and ongoing ability to maintain their physical and mental well-being.
“We are thankful that organizations such as Valley First understand the importance of food security for all families and individuals in our communities,” says Eileen Oliver-Bauer, Administrator at LSCSS. “The grant directly supports our priority to expand our support of our clients at Gustavson House.”
“Hunger is an issue faced by many in our communities and especially true for those struggling with mental health issues,” says Joan Bauman, Branch Manager at the Keremeos Valley First branch. “We’re very proud to support the Lower Similkameen Community Services Society with this grant. They’re serving vulnerable individuals in our community who need a helping hand.”