Therapeutic Work Programs

Research shows that between 70-90% of people with serious mental health challenges are unemployed, and face the highest degree of stigmatization in the workplace. We know that being employed and being able to care for oneself make a huge contribution to recovery from mental illness.

OMHSS has 2 programs to help participants gain the skills to increase their ability to obtain and maintain meaningful employment. This, in turn, supports their mental and overall health. Our work programs help to bridge the gap that links our participants’ desire to work, with opportunities to do so – in a modified and supportive environment.

• Yard By Yard
• Room By Room

How Does It Work?

We offer 2 programs: Room By Room (Janitorial contracts) and Yard By Yard (Landscaping and Tree Care contracts). All participants are trained on-the-job by supervisors and other program participants. Our supervisors understand the struggles of dealing with various mental health issues, effects of medication, and how all of these can complicate a participant’s life. Our supervisors work closely with all participants to support, encourage, teach and motivate them in the best way possible.

• Provide social and emotional support
• Our offices provide an “open-door” policy
• Telephone support for any work issues
• More than just job-training
• A safe place to visit and be accepted.

The programs offer participants a sense of purpose and normalcy. They develop skills in industries where there is steady demand. Supervisors encourage the participants to develop leadership skills.

Yard By Yard

We also offer lawn and garden care, arborist services, and tree care. Need a fall cleanup? Don’t wait for that snow-laden tree branch to fall on your car or house! Call OMHSS for a competitive quote. Our rates are competitive, our staff is supervised, and we follow all WorkSafeBC guidelines.

• Landscaping
• Lawn Maintenance
• Aerating / De-thatching
• Tree Care and Removal
• Clean-ups
• Weeding