Mobile outreach service launched in Lumby, Cherryville

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“By working collaboratively and meeting people directly in their communities, we are building a more responsive, compassionate, and effective system of care.”

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The services offered through the North Okanagan Rural Response initiative includes mobile outreach support for youth and young adults aged 12 to 24; mental health engagement, supports and prevention programs; harm reduction education; peer support training; and Indigenous-led healing circles and culturally grounded programs.

“In rural communities like Cherryville, residents often face significant gaps in accessing the full range of supports they need, from mental health care and substance use services to basic social supports,” Meghan Derkach, executive director of the Cherryville Community Food and Resource Society, said.

“This project is critical to help build a more complete, wraparound system of care right here in our community, connecting people to the right services at the right time and ensuring no one falls through the cracks simply because of where they live.”

“This initiative reflects the importance of meeting people where they are, not only with substance use services but with meaningful mental health support and early engagement,” Christine Lishman, executive director of Whitevalley Community Resource Centre, added.

“By strengthening prevention efforts and creating more opportunities for connection, we are helping individuals and families access the supports they need sooner and building stronger, healthier rural communities.”

The North Okanagan Rural Response initiative was supported through an investment from Health Canada’s Emergency Treatment Fund.

“We recognize that local and Indigenous communities are best positioned to understand the impacts of this crisis and the unique needs of their people,” Marjorie Michel, minister of health, stated.

“Their leadership ensures that care is delivered with compassion, respect, and cultural understanding. The initiatives announced today expand access to substance use health services, strengthen social supports, and enhance the availability of culturally appropriate programming for those who need it most.”

The amount of money provided from the federal government was not disclosed, but the Village of Lumby did state in a release that “this project is one of several initiatives funded across Canada” using the fund.