Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Partner for Mental Health and Housing Support in Vancouver
MPA Society has been a dedicated advocate for mental health and housing support since its founding in 1971. Originally established by a grassroots group of mental health patients and allies, the organization has grown to serve over 1,000 individuals across 13 municipalities in the Greater Vancouver Regional District. Our mission centers on providing respectful, inclusive, and safe housing alongside person-centered programming for those facing mental health, substance use, and housing insecurity challenges. With 34 unique programs and over 300 staff members, we offer a continuum of services including supported housing, licensed housing, community outreach, and creative therapeutic spaces like the MPArt Studio. Recognized for our commitment to excellence, we have maintained CARF Accreditation for 12 consecutive years, reflecting our adherence to rigorous service standards.Our values emphasize empowerment, cultural health and safety, accountability, growth through partnerships, and fostering community connections. Through collaborations with BC Housing, Vancouver Coastal Health, and Fraser Health, we ensure accessible pathways to housing and support services. Our Resource Centre provides critical drop-in services, including showers, laundry, and recreational activities, while our member-driven governance model ensures those we serve have a voice in organizational decisions. With a focus on recovery, autonomy, and dignity, MPA Society continues to innovate and expand its impact in mental health advocacy and housing solutions.
Services
Supported Housing
Licensed Housing
Community Outreach
MPArt Studio
Resource Centre
Homeless Outreach
Court Services
SOLO Program
SIL Program
Details
- Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years of experience in mental health and housing advocacy.
- Our CARF Accreditation reflects our commitment to service excellence.
- We offer a continuum of housing options from 24/7 staffed residences to independent living.
- Our member-driven model ensures client voices shape our programs and policies.
- We provide holistic support through creative therapies like the MPArt Studio.
Associations and certifications
- CARF
What people say
Life-changing housing support
Empathetic staff
Creative therapy programs
Community-driven approach
Accessible drop-in services
Services
Supported Housing
MPA Society provides 700+ units of Supported Housing across Vancouver and Fraser Health regions. Our programs range from 24/7 staffed residences to independent living with bi-monthly outreach. Each resident receives personalized support to maintain independence while accessing mental health resources. This housing model prioritizes community integration and long-term recovery.
Licensed Housing
Operating 9 homes for 75 residents, our Licensed Housing combines psychosocial rehabilitation with daily living support. Residents engage in health promotion programs and community partnerships to build confidence and independence. Services include structured living environments with tailored mental health and wellness initiatives.
Community Outreach
Our outreach teams connect with homeless individuals and those at risk through programs like SOLO and SIL. Services include housing navigation, mental health support, and access to essential resources. This initiative bridges gaps between vulnerable populations and permanent housing solutions.
MPArt Studio
Located at the Resource Centre, this self-directed art studio offers therapeutic creative expression for members. Participants develop artistic skills while building social connections in a stigma-free environment. The program showcases member artwork in our Virtual Gallery to celebrate recovery journeys.
Resource Centre
Our 2275 Fir Street centre provides showers, laundry, meals, and recreational activities for adults with mental health challenges. The space fosters community through structured programs and peer support while offering practical assistance with housing applications and service navigation.
People
Nick Blackman
Executive Director
Nick Blackman leads MPA Society's strategic operations with over 25 years of non-profit leadership experience. He champions housing-first approaches and systemic mental health reforms while maintaining CARF accreditation standards.
Janice Mallison
Director
Janice Mallison serves on the board with a focus on member advocacy and program accessibility. Her work ensures MPA's services remain aligned with the lived experiences of individuals facing mental health challenges.
Jeremy Smolik
Director
Jeremy Smolik contributes expertise in financial stewardship and organizational governance. He oversees budget allocations to maximize service impact while maintaining transparency in donor fund utilization.
Karen Elstone
Director/Chair
Karen Elstone chairs the board with emphasis on policy development and community partnerships. She drives initiatives that expand housing options and strengthen collaborations with health authorities.
Brian Dooley
Director
Brian Dooley focuses on staff development and program innovation. He implements training frameworks to enhance service delivery quality across MPA's 34 programs while supporting staff wellness initiatives.
Questions
How do I apply for MPA housing programs?
Referrals come through BC Housing or health authorities. Visit BC Housing's Orange Hall office for application assistance and follow up every three months.
Does MPA offer mental health advocacy services?
While we no longer have a dedicated advocacy program, we provide referrals to partner organizations like CMHA and ARA Mental Health for advocacy support.
Is membership required to access services?
No, membership isn't mandatory. However, all program participants are encouraged to join as members to participate in governance decisions.
What services are available at the Resource Centre?
The Resource Centre offers showers, laundry, meals, recreational activities, and housing application assistance. It operates Monday and Wednesday afternoons.
How is donor funding utilized?
100% of donations go directly to services. Funds support non-funded program activities, equipment purchases, or specific capital projects as directed by donors.
What crisis resources exist?
For emergencies, call 911. Non-urgent crisis support can be accessed through our Resource Centre during operating hours.
