Point in Time, in partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge, and several organizations representing the Haliburton County Connections Committee, have announced the launch of a two-year project.
‘Coming Full Circle: Training, Mentorship and Employment Supports for People with Lived Experience in Haliburton County ’ will begin Jan. 1.
Canada’s Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP) has given the partners just under $800,000 for the project.
It aims to build a network of people with lived and living experience of substance use and mental health challenges who are trained, equipped and supported to become peer support workers. These workers will have opportunities to build their own professional and leadership capacity to contribute to health and social system improvements across Haliburton County.
Marg Cox, executive director for Point in Time, said they are grateful to have the “exceptional” opportunity for training, education and employment supports for people with lived experience, as well as new community spaces and educational initiatives for community leaders.
“We are aware that the pandemic, economics and stress levels have contributed to substance use and we are thrilled to have an opportunity to co-develop supports with people with living and lived experience.”
CMHA HKPR will play a primary role in the operations of the project. Other partners include: Haliburton Kawartha Lakes Pine Ridge district health unit, the County of Haliburton Community Safety and WellBeing, Community Living Trent Highlands, Kawartha Lakes Housing Corporation, John Howard Society of Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton, PARN – Your Community AIDS Resource Network, and Haliburton Highlands Health Services.
Kerri Kightley, director of programs and services at CMHA HKPR, said they know people who have experienced challenges related to mental health and substance use have unique expertise in navigating systems and services that support their own recovery.
“This project aims to match that expertise with people who are struggling or who may be hesitant to reach out for help, and work to connect them with services to support their health and recovery. CMHA HKPR is thrilled to be working with Point in Time and our partners in Haliburton County to launch this important work.”
Project planners will be looking for people with lived and living experience to consult with as well as explore new space opportunities. If you would like to get involved in this project, phone or text 705-761-5499.
