Coming out of the pandemic, Simcoe Peer Support for Mental Health and Addictions has a new location and a renewed outlook to help people in South Georgian Bay.
The organization is a self-help peer support and resource centre for people who are experiencing mental health and addiction issues, including substance and alcohol abuse. It moved into a new location at 100 Pretty River Pkwy. N. in Collingwood recently, and will be holding an open house at the end of the month for anyone curious about the services it provides.
Shawna Johnson, executive director, says the organization served 319 clients in 2022-23, which was an increase. It offered 340 group sessions in the same time frame.
In-person programming returned in June 2022.
“One of the biggest things we hear from people coming in is that being able to be around other people who understand what they’re going through and have lived experience (brings) understanding. It’s a judgment-free atmosphere,” Johnson told CollingwoodToday.
“It feels like a big family, in a sense. They all have the same goal, and that’s to get well.”
It was formerly located on Elgin Street in Collingwood, and the new Pretty River Parkway location offers a large space for group sessions as well as a gym, separate kitchen, craft room and office spaces.
The facility serves as a drop-in centre and community hub for anyone 16 and older experiencing issues with mental health and/or substance and alcohol abuse. Services are confidential and are offered at no cost. No referral is needed, there is no wait list, and there are no restrictions on length of use.
The foundation of the program, which is designed to support existing services in the mental health system, is for peers to support peers.
To make sure virtual programming was running throughout the pandemic, the organization had numerous options for online engagement for its clients, including private Facebook groups and daily virtual group therapy sessions.
“Our numbers were higher during the pandemic when we moved to online. I think that’s because everybody has the internet. It’s easily accessible rather than having to come in person,” Johnson said.
“During the pandemic, with everybody being locked in, people were looking for some sort of outlet.”
In a news release, board chair Richard Schubert said the opening of the new centre represents a renewal of the organization’s commitment.
“We are delighted with the new premises and have had very positive feedback from members in this regard as well,” he said.
Simcoe Peer Support for Mental Health and Addictions was established in 1994 and serves all of north Simcoe County and Muskoka in Collingwood, Wasaga Beach, Stayner and Creemore.
While mostly funded through the provincial government, the organization is also looking for a volunteer to help lead its fundraising efforts.
“We’d like to work on creating a better fundraising strategy,” said Johnson.
The open house will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 30, with a special presentation at 1 p.m. at 100 Pretty River Pkwy. N.
More information on the organization can be found here.
