People First Media program archive
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Testing housing first for chronic alcoholics

February 16th, 2012 | Posted by pfmarchive in uncategorized - (Comments Off on Testing housing first for chronic alcoholics)

A study shows that nonabstinence-based housing does not enable alcohol use, but actually decreases it

A controversial project using a housing-first approach with chronically alcoholic homeless people in Seattle has been shown to decrease overall alcohol consumption levels. The program, which is funded by the City of Seattle, allows homeless shelter residents to continue to use alcohol, with an overall goal to reduce both alcohol use and alcohol-related problems. Now a study has found that the approach results in “across-the-board decreases in alcohol consumption and problems”, according to lead researcher Susan Collins. (more…)

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Not a choice, not a phase, it’s a disease

February 9th, 2012 | Posted by pfmarchive in uncategorized - (Comments Off on Not a choice, not a phase, it’s a disease)

Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses, and there isn’t enough care, treatment, and support available to help

A province-wide advocacy group working on behalf of adults with eating disorders recently met with the British Columbia minster of health. The meeting coincided with the government’s review of services available at the community level in B.C.’s health authorities.

Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of all mental illnesses, with 10 to 20 per cent of people affected dying from complications. The Advocacy for Adults with Eating Disorders group told B.C.’s health minister that there aren’t enough supports or treatment options for people struggling with eating disorders in the province. (more…)

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What lies beyond the macho man?

February 9th, 2012 | Posted by pfmarchive in uncategorized - (0 Comments)

The all-powerful protector and provider stereotype pressures men to conform, powerless to face modern social challenges

From first-ever university courses to academic conferences,an increasing interest in the concept of “men’s studies” is being fueled by the fact that race and class have made historical power formulas far more complex—and that patriarchal models of understanding are being gradually replaced by the irrelevance of gender in postmodern times.

Marc Lafrance, who teaches about men and masculinity as part of several courses on gender and sexuality, believes we need to look beyond the power and destructiveness of masculinity—and see that masculinity “as a structure, as a lived experience, can also be fundamentally disempowering to men.” (more…)

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My faith, my community—a dialogue

February 9th, 2012 | Posted by pfmarchive in uncategorized - (Comments Off on My faith, my community—a dialogue)

While various religions may hold differing attitudes toward worldliness, they still have obligations to their neighbours

The Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society will host an  interfaith bridging dialogue called “My Faith, My Community: Taking Action Together” on February 18, 2012. The dialogue is based on the fact that while religions may have a differing attitude to worldliness, they also have obligations towards neighbours. They need to do more to be proactive—to give to the community. The event brings diverse people together for a facilitated exchange around issues of social justice and civil engagement from the point of view of their faith. (more…)

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Eric Harper, Panache, and the Doug Thring Trio at second annual Mental Wellth Gala

February 7th, 2012 | Posted by pfmarchive in uncategorized - (0 Comments)

Second annual dinner and musical gala is set for Thursday March 15, 2012

Thank you for your support!

The second annual Mental Wellth dinner and musical gala is set for Thursday March 15, 2012. Funds raised are used in programs for Columbian Centre’s residents, supporting their steps toward greater mental health and wellness. (more…)

Mr. Anderson goes to City Hall

February 2nd, 2012 | Posted by pfmarchive in uncategorized - (Comments Off on Mr. Anderson goes to City Hall)

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banner pfrGeorge Anderson, in his first election, became the second African Canadian currently elected to municipal office in B.C.

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