A Way Forward Podcast Blog Series: Housing & Homelessness

In the second edition of A Way Forward Podcast Blog Series, presented by Beem Credit Union, we explore the critical connection between housing stability and mental health.
A Way Forward Podcast Blog Series: Housing & Homelessness

Housing and homelessness are complex issues that signify the importance of a proactive community and resources. This conversation underscores the urgent need for integrated approaches to address both homelessness and mental health challenges. From Episode 2: Housing & Homelessness of A Way Forward Podcast: Conversations on Mental Health.

Click here to watch Episode 2: Housing & Homelessness of A Way Forward Podcast | Presented by Beem Credit Union

"Without [housing], people are certainly more at risk of struggling with health care concerns, mental illness, and substance use."

CMHA Kelowna CEO, Mike Gawliuk emphasizes that housing is not just a physical shelter but a fundamental determinant of health. He notes, this connection reveals that without stable housing, individuals often face a downward spiral of mental health issues exacerbated by stress and insecurity.

What Does ‘Home’ Mean to You?

A fascinating back-and-forth between award-winning journalist & host Jessica Samuels and Mike, early in this episode, is the conversation of the meaning of home, with Jessica asking, “[To you], what is home?”

 

 

Home can be defined differently by everyone who ponders that thought, as Jessica explained home as, “Where family is, and when I think of what family represents to me, it’s security.”

So, we ask the question, what does home mean to you?

Rent Supports

A key highlight in this episode is the discussion around the Central Okanagan Rent Bank, which provides essential financial assistance to those at risk of losing their homes, "For $1,500 - one time, that can make the difference... between keeping the roof that they have over their head or ending up homeless."  

The Central Okanagan Rent Bank not only addresses housing insecurity, when it comes to financial needs, but also helps mitigate the mental health crises that can arise from such instability.

Homelessness Within the Vulnerable Population

Episode 2: Housing & Homelessness, also sheds light on vulnerable populations, including Indigenous communities, LGBTQ2SI individuals, and youth who are disproportionately affected by both homelessness and mental health challenges.

Mike shares an eye-opening stat, stating, “40% of people that end up experiencing homelessness experience that before the age of 16.”

There are various pathways to homelessness, this episode highlights that it is a complex issue influenced by multiple factors, including economic instability and mental health struggles.

Coming Together & Getting Support

The conversation concludes with a strong call to action for community awareness and engagement. Jessica Samuels reminds listeners, "There are resources out there that people can access," encouraging everyone to explore local initiatives aimed at providing support for mental health and housing support.

This episode serves as a vital reminder of the interconnectedness of mental health and housing stability. By fostering discussions and collaborations around these issues, we can work towards building a healthier, more supportive community.

Resources:

Tune in to the full podcast episode, wherever you get your podcasts or on YouTube, to learn more about housing & homelessness and the connection to mental health challenges.

The way forward is together.

A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health

A Way Forward Podcast is proudly presented by Beem Credit Union. BlueShore Financial, GFCU Savings, Gulf & Fraser, Interior Savings, and North Peace Savings are trade names of Beem Credit Union.

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