Individuals living in supportive housing and/or who face a substance use disorder are often treated as “less than,” and can experience harsh judgment and discrimination, which in turn prevents them from building the relationships and well-being necessary to successfully reenter society.

CMHA Kelowna's Recreation Program aims to get residents out of isolation, and into community, where hope and healing are possible. 

What is the program accomplishing? Less shame.

In the past year, participation has increased, with organized outings twice per month for between 5-15 participants. Simpler activities (like bingo or pizza making) are available every day at each supportive housing location, maximizing opportunities for connection. But numbers are one thing, and the experiences of real people another. And that matters: Shame is strongly linked to various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and addiction. Negative emotions and behaviours stemming from shame can lead to low self-esteem, social withdrawal, and impaired functioning, impacting overall well-being. 

Your gift will support our recreation program to organize important social events and local “experiences”—such as going bowling, visiting a local petting zoo, enjoying a group pizza party, or catching a theatrical or music performance.

Recreation Worker Colleen is seeing the transformation firsthand. She says, “When we do our walks, I can see the connections there…People in addiction tend to isolate themselves…I would like to ignite that little bit of passion in them, to live life.” 

This gift supports our Supportive Housing Recreation Program, fostering connection and creating meaningful (and fun) spaces for healing. Because the "opposite of addiction is connection."

Read more about our Recreation program, and the changes we're seeing in action here.