Initiative changes lives
The Personalized Supports Initiative (PSI) is making a real difference in the life of 19-year-old Michael. He is making some big changes thanks to the support and understanding he receives from Community Living BC, Interior Community Services and Ask Wellness. Michael’s home is in Kamloops BC where life has not always been easy for him. He came into care at the age of 16 and was living in a residential placement before turning 19. Through the new PSI, CLBC worked together with the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD), Interior Community Services and Ask Wellness to plan with Michael.
CLBC Facilitator, Wendy Peschick, was part of this planning process and speaks highly of Michael and the working partnership between the four agencies. “MCFD did a great job in securing housing for Michael and helped him transition to new services and supports when he turned 19,” said Wendy. “Without the support from PSI and community services Michael could be living in an unsafe environment, instead he is moving on with his life, applying for jobs, looking for new friends and voicing his opinion in positive ways.”
Michael’s living situation is unique, it is a great example of how services can come together to support people. He lives in an apartment block where there is somebody on site who he can touch base with on a regular basis. This network and the support he receives through the PSI empowers Michael to live on his own and helps him feel safe and secure.
CLBC’s PSI is helping Michael connect with his community, learn new life skills and find employment. Michael likes the flexibility that PSI provides in his life, he says nobody is forcing him to do things; instead they are helping him take action in ways that work for him and encouraging him to experience new things.
“Michael has a great sense of humour, he really enjoys playing video games and he has gone from a kid with many challenges to an adult who thinks life can be good,” says Wendy. “He is very excited and hopeful about his life and I admire him for his strength and courage.”
