Supported housing has been the traditional focus of this branch. We currently provide five housing programs which are accessed by referrals from the Fraser Health Authority and BC Housing.
Supported housing programs assist people in developing skills and obtaining the resources they want and need in their particular situation.
These initiatives represent real hope to people who want to live, learn, and work in the same ways as non disabled members of the community.
Supported Independent Living (SIL)
The Supported Independent living (SIL) program provides clients living in New Westminster a housing subsidy for their rent. The SIL program is a temporary program and not a long term housing solution. In this client centred program, clients are expected to find alternate housings while working with the case managers and SIL workers on their recovery goals. Life skills training, re-learning skills and developing coping skills are only a small part of their recovery. Clients can choose where to live in New Westminster and what type of accommodation to live in. Clients are expected to participate in a rehabilitation program and develop independent skills as they work on their recovery from mental illness.
Community Living Support (CLS)
The community living support program (CLS) is a client centred program for people who are living in New Westminster with a mental illness. Clients are referred through the New Westminster mental health centre and recieve a CLS worker. The case manager, CLS worker and client work together on recovery goals set up in a individual service plan agreement (ISPA) or contract. In the community living support program, clients can be living on their own in the community, with family or in a transitional home. This program is similar to the SIL program in developing and completing recovery goals but there is no housing subsidy. The program uses a rehabilitation model to develop life skills, coping skills and assist in completing the recovery goals. The CLS program is a community support program and can be a stepping stone towards independence in the community.
Residential Supplement Program (RSP)
The residential supplement program was formerly known as the scattered address program at CMHA-SF Branch. This program is a housing subsidy program that is funded through BC Housing. In the residential supplement program there is no required support worker that comes with the subsidy. The client can recieve subsidized housing anywhere in New Westminster. All referrals are made to CMHA-SF Branch and the appropriate candidate is matched with a subsidy through CMHA-SF Branch. There is a yearly annual housing inspection that is a requirement of BC Housing for this program and is completed by the housing manager.
Youth Semi-Independent Living (YSIL)
The mandate of this program is to provided housing and support to youth who are 16 to 21 years old, who have a diagnosed mental illness and who are unable to live at home. This program is offered in the Fraser North Area of the Fraser Health Authority.
Transitional Housing
Simon Fraser Branch operates four transitional houses and satellite apartments in New Westminster and Maple Ridge which support clients to acquire the necessary skills to live independently in their community. See photos of our houses under Transition Houses on the menu.