With the support and encouragement of The Kettle community, Terry-Lee has built an inspiring new life. She is housed, employed and studying to become a mental health worker herself.
The Kettle staff were always around. They offered me food, blankets, clothes…always asking if I needed anything. They were patient and they waited for me to be ready.
Eventually, I trusted them enough to step through the doors. The staff were so friendly. They helped me find my way to a more stable place. With their support I have been able to build a better life in Vancouver. I am housed, employed and I have a community here at The Kettle.
I am working towards being a mental health worker one day. It’s hard to understand this life unless you have lived it and I think I could help people with my experience.
The mental health healthcare system is overburdened and folks don’t get the one-on-one care that they need. When I am a peer mental health worker, I know I will make a difference by listening, helping people access resources and advocating for their needs.
I know many of you would like to help and it’s hard to know how to support people who are living with complex mental illnesses.
I’ve learned that one of the best things people can do to help is extend a hand in friendship without expectation or judgment. The offer of a warm drink, a sandwich, a blanket or a shower goes a long way to building trust and showing compassion.
This is what The Kettle Drop-In does 365 days a year. On the darkest, wettest days of winter and on the bright, blazing days of summer, they are there. Doors and hearts open wide.