Central Okanagan Rent Bank | Forward Focus #1 | A Way Forward Podcast

Central Okanagan Rent Bank | Forward Focus #1 | A Way Forward Podcast

Author: CMHA Kelowna and Jessica Samuels April 2, 2025 Duration: 4:16

Welcome to the first episode of Forward Focus, our quick-hit, bit-sized episodes that gives you insight and information about the things you want to know.

Today's episode focuses on the Central Okanagan Rent Bank. CMHA Kelowna believes that everyone has the right to safe and affordable housing. The rising cost of living means that there are many people who are only a paycheque or two away from not being able to pay their rent. When we can remove the stress of choosing between paying rent and paying for life’s necessities like food – an incredible burden is lifted and leaves room for us to move forward in our lives. At CMHA Kelowna we have a mission to create a mentally healthy community, and we believe that having a place to call home is part of the foundation of good mental health.  

The Central Okanagan Rent Bank program helps to increase the housing stability in our community for individuals who are experiencing short-term financial difficulties. The rent bank offers interest–free repayable loans as well as access to relevant support services to eligible renters in the Central Okanagan (Kelowna, West Kelowna, Lake Country and Peachland).

To learn more about the Central Okanagan Rent Bank, visit https://www.cmhakelowna.com/programs-supports/foundry-kelowna


Hosted by Jessica Samuels and presented by the Canadian Mental Health Association's Kelowna branch, A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health digs into the real-world factors that impact our psychological well-being. This isn't just a discussion of symptoms, but a thoughtful exploration of the societal, cultural, and personal stressors that weigh on us. Each episode moves beyond simply identifying problems to focus on practical approaches and tangible practices that can make a difference. You'll hear conversations that acknowledge how interconnected our mental health is with our physical fitness, our community, and the world around us. Supported by Beem Credit Union, the podcast provides a grounded space where complex topics feel accessible. Tuning in offers more than just insight; it’s about gathering useful information and realistic tools that you can apply to your own life. The goal is to leave each conversation with a clearer sense of direction and, as the title suggests, a genuine path toward resilience. This is a resource for anyone looking to understand the nuances of mental health and find actionable strategies for themselves and their communities.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 27

A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health
Podcast Episodes
Episode 5: Mental Health & The Holidays [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:03
In Episode 5 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels is joined by Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna for a conversation on Mental Health & The Holidays. The h…
Episode 4: Men's Mental Health [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:53
In Episode 4 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels is joined by Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna, for a discussion on men's mental health and suicide rate…
Episode 3: Cost of Living [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:28
In Episode 3 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels is joined by Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna, for a discussion on the cost of living and how it can af…
Episode 2: Housing & Homelessness [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:08
In Episode 2 of A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, host Jessica Samuels is joined by Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna, for a discussion on housing and homelessness. This episo…
Episode 1: Youth Mental Health [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:07
In the first episode of A Way Forward Podcast: Conversations on Mental Health, presented by Beem Credit Union, Jessica Samuels covers the topic of Youth Mental Health with CMHA Kelowna CEO Mike Gawliuk and the need for m…
A Way Forward - Podcast Trailer [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:31
Introducing A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health, hosted by Jessica Samuels in partnership with CMHA Kelowna, and presented by Beem Credit Union. In this short introduction episode, Jessica Samuels outlines that…