Program Overview: CMHA Calgary – Community LAMDA

Community LAMDA is a CMHA Calgary permanent supportive living program for adults with a diagnosed mental health condition. It is designed for individuals who can live independently but benefit from consistent, ongoing support.

In collaboration with Calgary Housing Company, the program provides affordable housing in either a private apartment or a shared two-bedroom unit. Residents are supported in maintaining their wellness, developing independent living skills, and planning for the future.

What Support Looks Like

Residents meet regularly (bi-weekly or as needed) with a Supportive Living Coordinator (SLC). Together, they work to:

• Identify and achieve personal goals related to independent living (e.g., cooking, money management, social engagement)
• Access social and recreational opportunities that align with personal interests
• Navigate community services and resources
• Recognize and respond to changes in mental wellness

The program also fosters a supportive, connected living environment that encourages emotional safety and a sense of community among residents.

Referrals to the Community LAMDA Program

Due to the long-term nature of Community LAMDA housing, vacancies are infrequent. CMHA Calgary does not maintain a waitlist for this program. When units do become available, referral opportunities are prioritized for individuals already transitioning from other CMHA Calgary housing programs.

We are actively working to expand Community LAMDA and increase the number of available units. Once additional capacity is available, the public intake process will be announced through the CMHA Calgary website. Please stay tuned for future updates.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Community LAMDA Program, individuals must:

• Be an active participant in a CMHA Calgary program
• Be 18 years of age or older
• Be willing and able to engage with CMHA staff to work toward personal recovery goals
• Have a confirmed mental health diagnosis
• Be able to manage physical health needs independently
• Demonstrate the ability to live independently
• Be connected to ongoing clinical support (e.g., family physician, outpatient clinic, or counseling service; support does not need to be provided by AHS or Recovery Alberta)
• Meet Calgary Housing Company’s income and asset eligibility criteria
• Be open to shared accommodation, if applicable to the available unit

Ineligibility Guidelines

Individuals may not be eligible for Community LAMDA if they:

• Have physical health needs that significantly impact their ability to live independently
• Present a current risk of harm to themselves, others, or CMHA Calgary staff
• Have a diagnosed traumatic brain injury that interferes with independent living
• Are receiving funding through Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD)

Who We Are

Founded in 1987 by psychiatrist Dr. Mary Dumka, Community LAMDA Society is a registered charity that has provided residential accommodation and support services for adults with severe and persistent mental illness. On January 1, 2025, LAMDA proudly became part of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Calgary Region (CMHA Calgary). This strategic merger ensures that LAMDA’s legacy continues to thrive while expanding the availability of supportive housing and mental health resources in Calgary.

Together with CMHA Calgary, we are working to address the growing need for comprehensive mental health care and housing support in our community. Our shared vision remains to provide stability and wellness for adults experiencing chronic mental illness, particularly schizophrenia.

Our Mission

To provide staff-supported, affordable, apartment-style homes as a foundation for stability and wellness for adults in Calgary who experience chronic mental illness, particularly schizophrenia.

Our Vision

To increase the level of independence and self-esteem of people living with mental illness by providing services that strengthen their natural support networks, including family and friends.

Operational Structure

Community LAMDA Society’s residential buildings are provided by Calgary Housing Company, which is responsible for building operations and rent. Following the acquisition, CMHA Calgary will oversee all supportive services and integrate LAMDA’s existing programs into its broader continuum of care. LAMDA’s tenants will experience a seamless transition with a 24-month continuity plan to ensure stability and support.

What We Do

Now under CMHA Calgary, LAMDA continues to provide staff-supported, affordable, apartment-style homes for adults in Calgary who experience chronic mental illness.

Housing Overview:

• The Mission site has 30 single-occupancy apartments.
• The Killarney site has 16 two-bedroom apartments.
• In total, we serve 62 people.

Support Services: Tenants receive assistance from Independent Living Support (ILS) workers who help sustain community support, ensure housing is well organized and safe, and safeguard tenants’ independence. These professionals work Monday to Friday, 9 am – 5 pm, with occasional evenings for activities.

Support Includes:

• Acting as a liaison with tenants’ individual mental health service providers.
• Offering social, leisure, educational, health promotion, and skill development activities.
• Facilitating routine skill-building, including personal hygiene, meal planning, grocery shopping, household maintenance, money management, and transportation.
• Promoting and facilitating tenant involvement in leisure and community activities.
• Collaborating with tenants’ families, case managers, and support teams from Alberta Health Services.
• Assisting with AISH and rent review forms and maintaining contact with AISH workers for financial concerns.
• Supporting tenant participation in organizations such as Schizophrenia Society, Potential Place, Calgary Association of Self Help, and CMHA Calgary programs.

How We Differ

People with mental illness are among the most vulnerable in our community and often need support to exercise their basic right to a safe home. Unlike temporary residential treatment facilities, LAMDA provides safe, permanent homes, allowing tenants to maintain their independence and stability. By integrating LAMDA’s exceptional supportive housing model with CMHA Calgary’s resources, we are strengthening our commitment to building a community where everyone has access to the housing and support they need to thrive.