Grant Guarantees Continued Help for Mental Health and Housing Needs
“The Library is a place where people can stay for many hours a day without being asked to leave. It offers sanctuary from the elements and has become a core service for managing patrons with mental health and addiction issues.” — Elizabeth Sutter, Manager of Customer Services & Branch Operations
Since 2022, we have partnered with CMHA Thames Valley Addiction and Mental Health Services (CMHATV) to provide a qualified Transitional Case Manager (TCM) at our Central Library. What began as an 18-month pilot program has proven to be incredibly valuable, offering essential support to individuals dealing with mental health challenges, addiction issues, and homelessness. We are thrilled to announce that thanks to a generous $280,000 Community Vitality Grant from the London Community Foundation, London Public Library can continue to offer these crucial services through 2027.
Jessica Pilatzkie, one of our dedicated Transitional Case Managers, has been at the heart of this initiative. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Jessica brings both personal and professional insights to her role. Having grown up in London housing with parents struggling with addiction, she deeply understands the complexities faced by those in similar situations. Her empathy and expertise are evident in the way she connects with and supports our patrons.
Having this service available at the Library means that people can come in, talk to someone, and get the resources they need.” Pilatzkie explains, “When you don’t have anyone in your corner and you’re completely lost, it’s kind of paralyzing. Just knowing someone is always here, Monday to Friday, to support you a little bit is really great. I don’t know anywhere else in the city where you can get that.
The TCM program provides a range of support services, including referrals for housing, legal assistance, and mental health counseling. Each month, our case workers see between 60 and 82 clients at the Library, offering crucial help and resources. Pilatzkie's work involves everything from helping individuals fill out online forms to providing crisis intervention, all while focusing on understanding each person’s unique needs. However, it’s up to the patron to make the first step.
Consider the story of a mother and her 11-year-old daughter who turned to the Library during a particularly dark time. After being locked out of a rundown rental, they were spending their nights sleeping under a table at a 24-hour Tim Hortons. The daughter had to leave school, and they faced unimaginable hardships.
Despite these challenges, the mother’s determination never wavered. They continued to visit the Library every morning. Through the support of an Ontario Works worker and Pilatzkie’s help, she received employment training, built her resume, and even created a heartfelt video seeking housing assistance. Within days, their circumstances changed dramatically. The mother found a new apartment, secured a job, obtained her G1 license, and her daughter was able to return to school. Now, the mother works at a job she loves and looks forward to a brighter future.
“Even if it’s something you don’t think we can help with, we can always refer out. It wouldn’t be a waste of a trip; we’d always try to make it worth your while. If you’d prefer to call or text, you can reach us at 1-844-360-8055. If you’re hesitant, just know that we’re here to support you,” says Jessica Pilatzkie.
This Community Vitality Grant ensures we can continue supporting individuals like this mother and daughter in their journey toward stability and independence. Our commitment to making a difference remains strong, and we look forward to seeing the continued impact of this program.
For more information about the services available at our Central Library and the positive impact they’re making, please visit our website or come by the Library. Together, we are building a stronger, healthier community—one story at a time.