Success Story: Community Homes

Support and Peace of Mind

In March 2009, Coast Mental Health opened its twelfth community home in Burnaby. The home, Forglen House, is the first partnership with the Fraser Health Authority.  Ten residents call Forglen home, including Roddy who has struggled with depression and bipolar for many years.

Roddy, 67, is one of nine residents who moved from an older private home in New Westminster and says that over the years he has been in many different homes and living situations since his diagnosis but nothing compares to this. “[Forglen] is the first place that has really felt like a home,” says Roddy. 

He beams when he takes anyone on a tour of his large private bedroom that is decorated with beautiful paintings and artwork. “The staff here really makes a difference in my life. They are very friendly and make living here comfortable.”

Coast’s community home program provides licensed 24 hour, 7 days a week support for life skills development, symptom management, activities of daily living, leisure and community resource development. Support that Roddy has come to appreciate very much.

Beyond the living support, Forglen House is found in a beautiful, quiet area in Burnaby which is ideal for residents like Roddy who enjoy walking and saying hello to the neighbours.

It has been many years since Roddy has struggled with his mental health concerns. This does not stop him from attending meetings in the community regularly. Roddy says that sharing his story of recovery with others has helped other members achieve their personal goals.