Episode 2: Housing & Homelessness

Episode 2: Housing & Homelessness

Author: CMHA Kelowna and Jessica Samuels October 9, 2024 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 episode sheds light on the complex web of issues surrounding homelessness and highlights the importance of proactive community support and resources. The discussion examines the many pathways to homelessness, and how experiencing homelessness can significantly impact a person's mental wellness. 

Resources and programs that can prevent individuals from becoming homeless, and that can support people to get back into housing are highlighted in this episode.

**Key Topics Discussed:**

  • What It Means to Have a Home: The distinction between having a stable home versus temporary shelter, and why a secure place to live is critical to overall well-being.
  • Pathways to Homelessness: Exploring the many factors—both individual and societal—that can contribute to housing instability and homelessness, from financial struggles, to personal crises, to mental health challenges.
  • Prevention and Early Intervention: Mike shares insights on existing programs and services designed to intervene early, helping to prevent individuals from becoming homeless.

**Resources Mentioned:**


**General Mental Health Resources:**
If you or someone you know is struggling, CMHA Kelowna's Find Help Now page has a list of emergency and non-emergency resources for individuals of any age. CMHA Kelowna - Find Help Now



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: 30

A Way Forward: Conversations on Mental Health
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