Two area mental health organizations are joining forces.
The boards of directors of the Canadian Mental Health Association Grand River Branch and Trellis Mental Health and Developmental Services unanimously agreed to amalgamate effective April 1.
The amalgamated organization will become the Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo Wellington Dufferin Branch.
Officials say the move will ensure the new organization has a strong relationship with a recognized and influential provincial and national mental health association known for its leadership in promoting the mental health of Canadians and supporting the resilience and recovery of people experiencing mental illness.
By combining resources, officials believe a more integrated service system will be created, making it easier for people to access and navigate across Waterloo, Wellington and Dufferin. More residents will be served and provided the right service, at the right time in the right place – enabling them to live successfully in the community.
The goal is to create a strong community health organization that residents can turn to in times of need. Through these transitional months, both organizations will be working together to ensure there is seamless transition for all those who currently receive service.
The organizations will also be working closely with staff and unions to ensure staff receive clear, reliable information and have the necessary supports to transition smoothly and are equipped to focus on service delivery, the organizations stated in a press release.
In addition to its work in the area of mental health, Trellis provides developmental and inclusion support services to residents of Wellington County.
The unique identity of these services will be recognized by a distinct name and logo under the umbrella of the new name.
“We move forward knowing that this integration will provide more and better services to our residents and communities,” the release states.
“Residents of our region are the true winners through this amalgamation,” said Tellis president Peter Kastner.
“A strong integration and business plan has been created that will enable this new service delivery model to unfold. People will be able to access service more easily, a broader range of services will be provided and they will receive the support and treatment they need as close to home as possible.”
Mental Health Association president Jeff Henry said, “This is a critical next step in the evolution of our health system focusing on keeping residents at the centre. We will use resources more effectively and generate better outcomes for those in our community.”
Added Waterloo Wellington Local Health Integration Network CEO Bruce Lauckner, “The people of Waterloo Wellington will greatly benefit from the [amalgamation]. More of our residents will be able to receive better coordinated care, a broader range of services and find it easier to navigate an overly complex system.
“Unifying the strengths of both organizations leads the way as we reshape our local health system to put the health and well-being of our residents first.”
