Can-Help Program

Fort Frances
612 Portage Avenue
Fort Frances, Ontario P9A 3M8
Phone: 807-274-2347
Fax: 807-274-3515
Toll Free: 1-877-311-0117 
Christina Hahkala Peer & Family Support Worker chahkala@cmhaff.ca 807-274-2347 ext. 214

Kenora
Box 492 - 610 Lakeview Drive Unit #40
Kenora, Ontario P9N 3X6
Phone: 807-468-4699
Fax: 807-468-7628
Maria Coleman Peer Support Development Consultant mcoleman@cmhaff.ca 807-468-4699 ext. 2
Lisa Vigfusson Peer & Family Support Worker
Forensic Peer Support Worker		 lvigfusson@cmhaff.ca 807-468-4699 ext. 3

 The Can Help Program has been initiated, developed, and staffed by individuals who have experience with mental illness and family members. 

Consumers and family members have identified the need for and benefit of services provided by a peer; someone who has experienced a mental illness and is knowledgeable of mental health and social services.  Therefore, this is consumer driven initiative that provides support to individuals and families who are affected by the stigma and reality of mental illness throughout the Kenora/ Rainy River Districts.

We work co-operatively with other mental health agencies to ensure that consumers have access to the services they need in a timely manner.

Support Offered

  • Supporting individuals and families
  • Providing social interaction, short-term support, and linkages to other services
  • Connecting individuals with available support groups
  • Providing information regarding self-help techniques
  • Advocacy services
  • Referrals to community resources
  • Presentations and information on mental health related topics
  • Education to individuals, families, and community organizations
  • Assisting communities to develop peer support groups
  • Understanding of the mental health system and process
  • Providing information on current government policies in the mental health field
  • Providing resources and library services

Family Support
When someone is diagnosed with a mental illness it can affect the whole family including the parents, children, spouses and siblings. The Can Help Program, Canadian Mental Health Association Fort Frances Branch recognizes how stressful that can be and is pleased to offer family support services.

Peer Support
Our Peer Support Specialists support individuals with mental health issues by offering services, advocacy, and education.

Forensic Peer Support
Forensic Peer Support provides support to individuals wh ohave been, are in, or are at risk of being in the criminal justice system. Forensic Peer Support serves as a community guide, coach and/or advocate, and provides support as individuals focus on their paths to recovery.

Conference
Get the latest information about the Annual Consumer & Family Conference!

Presentations Offered
Presentation can be designed to meet the needs of the community group or organization. Presentations are offered on a number of different topics, including:

  • Understanding Mental Illness
  • Addressing Stigma
  • Process of Recovery
  • Awareness …
  • Wellness Recovery Action Plan Training, WRAP

HOPE is the cornerstone of Recovery.

 

Additional Documentation