The Kettle Society

On July 19, 1976, a group of 20 concerned people in Vancouver, BC prepared a brief statement addressing the need to develop a support service for individuals who were, or who had been, receiving psychiatric treatment in the community. The overarching aim was to help improve the lives of those who were living with mental illness to improve their quality of life. The staff at, “The Kettle” (as The Kettle Society is often referred to), are committed to practical and non-judgemental harm reduction strategies as a means of continuing to improve the quality of life of people living with mental illness. The goal of the Kettle Society of Vancouver, BC is to support people living with mental illness in leading healthier lives. Their goal is achieved in three main ways:

  1. providing Housing, employment, advocacy and support services,
  2. raising awareness of mental health issues and decreasing stigma/breaking down barriers,
  3. promoting the inclusion of people living with mental illness.

The Kettle provides over 3,600 individuals with 26 different types of services, including a mental health drop-in centre, a transition house for women, and over 200 units of supported housing.

The Kettle uses a holistic approach that emphasizes the importance of integrating physical, mental and spiritual aspects of life, embodying the interconnection and equal importance of all three in achieving health and enriching life.

Community and Housing Services are offered.  The Community Services approach uses an empowerment model to support individuals to build their self-esteem and provides options for both rehabilitation and recovery. The organization also works with the community to help break down barriers created by stigma. The different programs offered include:

  1. Mental Health Drop-In Centre
  2. Advocacy Services
  3. On-site Health Clinic
  4. Outreach Services
  5. SEED Employment Program
  6. Volunteer Programs
  7. Recreational & Lifeskill Programs

The Housing Services programs aim to provide individuals with services that prevent and reduce hospital care, simultaneously promoting the optimal level of functioning to help individuals work to their potential, achieving personal satisfaction, and growth. The Housing programs integrate psychosocial rehabilitation principles and the recovery model to help members improve their quality of life. The programs offered include:

  1. Housing Assistance
  2. Supported Independent Living (SIL) Program and the Super SIL Program
  3. Enhanced Supported Apartments
  4. Licensed Care Facilities
  5. Transitional Housing
  6. Eligibility and application process for mental health subsidized housing programs

Leave a Comments