By Pam Wright
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Strength in numbers.
That’s the idea behind a renewed collaboration between four of Chatham-Kent’s leading helping agencies.
To that end, the Mental Health Network of Chatham-Kent (MHNCK), R.O.C.K. Missions, Hope Haven and the Salvation Army got together to hold the first of what they hope will be ongoing neighbourhood meet-and-greet gatherings.
The free barbecue, set in Hope House’s shady backyard oasis, saw a steady stream of people attend, affording them the opportunity to speak with members of the various agencies.
Jenny Jackson, acting executive director of the MHNCK, said volunteers hand delivered 450 flyers to neighbours in a one-kilometre radius of Hope House, inviting them to attend the meet and greet Aug. 22.
The trim two-storey brick home on Raleigh Street is where the MHNCK is headquartered.
“We wanted people to know who we are and what we do,” Jackson said. “This way they can learn a little bit about each of our organizations.”
Plus, she said, it allowed volunteers, staff and the community an opportunity to build relationships.
It also helped the public understand what various agencies have to offer.
At Hope House, those facing mental illness are offered a wide array of social programming which sometimes included meals.
“Anyone who lives with a mental illness, we want to hear from them,” Jackson said, noting families are offered help as well.
“Since the COVID-19 pandemic. local rates of mental illness have been on the rise,” she added. “You can’t go through something like that without it affecting you. Isolation is never good for anybody.”
However, she noted, the stigma around seeking help for mental health has lessened in recent years.
“There’s more awareness now,” Jackson said. “The more we talk about it, the more we heal. There’s lots of wonderful work being done by these organizations.”
For more information about what the MHNCK has to offer, contact jenny@mhnck.com or call 519-351-3100. Interested parties can book a tour and staff will help them fill out a membership.
