About Us

Who we are | Who we help


Upstream Ottawa has been a provider of community based mental health services since 1985. We are committed to providing meaningful community-based, client-focused and equitable mental health, substance-use health and addiction support services to adult and youth populations

We go above and beyond the  expectations of our clients and donors by continuing to offer our clients a variety of ‘Value Added Services’ such as our Upstream Psychiatric Assessment Clinic and other popular social/recreational group events based on the feedback of those that use the services

Funding


We would like to recognize and thank our key funder for their continued support. Their investment allows us to help more members of our community.

Ontario Health East Region

Our history


1988-1995: Grass roots meets innovation

Project Upstream Ottawa Carleton Incorporated, as we are known officially, establishes roots in the community after the Ontario Ministry of Health approves funding for the operation of our new program. By 1990, eighteen men and women, including couples are being served in a supporting living environment in two homes, single apartments and a variety of public and private housing. 2 clients join the Board as voting members.

1996-2000: Family Focused Case Management services are piloted in the region

Our program pioneers a Family Focused Case Management pilot in collaboration with Regional Case Management Services (presently known as MHCSS or Mental Health Community Support Services).
In 2000, following funding by the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care, this innovative service becomes an integral part of our program. 61 clients and 21 families are served by 5 staff members.

2001-2008: Expansion and new challenges

Project Upstream consolidates its continued growth and explores new possibilities for responding to ongoing demands for mental health support for youth. In response, a new youth program pilot is initiated. By 2008, 87 individuals and several of their families are served by 6 staff.

2009-2017: Helping youth reclaim their lives

Project Upstream establishes the Youth Matters Campaign, successfully expanding their Family Focused Case Management Services to support youth during early episodes of mental illness and during transition to adult mental health services.  Thanks to ongoing fundraising efforts, a new staff member is acquired in November 2011 to extend services to eight to ten young clients between the ages of 16 and 24. By 2013 the youth program is thriving and in high demand.

2018 - current: Looking to the future

Donations and sponsorships continue to help us have a positive influence in the lives of many living with a mental illness in our community. Thank you to all our generous donors and supporters for investing in us and in the future of those we serve.

About Us