The Anchorage Community Planning Partners (ACPP) held their third meeting on August 9 at Princeton General Hospital, continuing their work to co-create an inclusive, holistic mental health and substance use program tailored to meet the diverse needs of Princeton clients. The partnership includes representatives from Princeton Family Services Society, Princeton Town Council, Cascade Medical Group, BC Ambulance Community Paramedicine, Interior Health, and Support Our Health Care Society.
At the previous meeting, five working groups were formed: Program Development, Space, Partnership Development, Budget, and Communication.
Elaine Carlson and Colleen Wedd gave a report on Program Development, emphasizing that the Anchorage Clubhouse remains open, offering a wide variety of programs at their new, temporary location. The Clubhouse is open for ‘members’ to drop-in from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm on Monday and Tuesday and for other programs that are offered on Wednesday and Thursday. The Programs Working Group also outlined a proposal that included extended mental health services for Princeton and Area.
Heather Eriksen leads the Partnership Development working group and reported on a meeting she had with Princeton Senior Citizens Association. She also indicated that future partnerships might include local service organizations.
The Space working group comprises Rosemary Doughty, Jo-Ann Ferguson, Elaine Carlson, and Kim Maynard. Doughty reported that progress is being made in their efforts to find a permanent new home for the Anchorage Clubhouse.
Joseph Savage leads the Budget working group. He gave a report showing present Interior Health funding, indicating that future budgets will need to reflect program and facility developments.
The Communication working group consists of Edward Staples and Joseph Savage. The members of the ACPP want the community to know that through their cooperative efforts, they are confident that improved services will make the Anchorage a stronger and more effective member of our community.