T
he summer of 2013 was far from easy
for Calgarians: when the waters of
Calgary’s rivers breached their banks in
late June, the city and surrounding areas
were thrown into an unprecedented
chaos. Thirty two communities were
either fully or partially evacuated, with
more than 100,000 people forced out
of their homes. Evacuation centres
were set up, roads and bridges closed,
and the city was placed under a state
of local emergency for 14 days. The
people of Calgary, in their response to
the flood and its aftermath, lived up to
their reputation as resilient, generous,
community-minded
individuals.
Whether volunteering in the clean-up
and recovery or contributing financially,
Calgarians responded in time, talent
and spirit.
As the days following the crisis turned
into weeks, the first wave of human
need receded, but the second wave
brought with it long-term implications.
It became evident one of the primary
aftereffects of the crisis would be
the impact on the mental health of
Calgarians. Some had lost their homes,
others, their jobs. For many the stresses
of having lived through a natural disaster
would present long-term struggles with
wellness. Supported by United Way
of Calgary and Area and the Calgary
Foundation, CMHA - Calgary was quick
to recognize and address community
needs and responded in several ways.
With
an
investment
from
the
Government of Alberta, we were able to
add and expand programs to support
those impacted by the flood.
Our
Seniors
Recovery
Program
supports seniors in Calgary and
surrounding
communities
most
impacted by the flood. This outreach
service links with existing programs
and services with a goal of re-creating
normalcy using a variety of supports and
activities to reduce social isolation and
increase education and independent
living skills. This service is focused
on the recovery model of mental health
and supports capacity building with
other non-profit social services in our
community.
As well, CMHA - Calgary broadened work
we were already doing in the community
by expanding and creating programs.
The Community Helpers initiative was
expanded to schools in Calgary and
area and also to seniors in High River.
The Bowness Wellness Group Drop-In
meetings were developed to provide a
safe environment for anyone who would
like a space to share their experiences
and stories.
As part of our flood response, CMHA
- Calgary’s Workplace Mental Health,
Education and Advocacy programs
were revised to offer a workshop to
help individuals and communities
better manage change following a
major life event. The workshop provides
information on how to support one’s
self, their loved ones, and community
members who may be showing signs
of prolonged mental distress or mental
health issues. Included is information
on what to look for, how to establish
boundaries, the tools to start the
conversation with someone who may
need support, and information on
community resources for continued
support.
Annual Report to the Community 2013-2014
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