FLOODS – Free counselling for Merritt victims being extended to Nov. 30

Free counselling support through the Merritt Resiliency Project has been extended to Nov. 30, 2026.

The Kamloops Branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association announced it today (Sept. 21, 2026).

The initiative was created in response to the lasting impacts of the 2021 floods in Merritt and the surrounding region. The program, funded through the Canadian Red Cross 2021 Flood Relief Fund,  had previously been scheduled to conclude Sept. 30.

The 2021 floods affected people in different ways, and emotional impacts can continue long after the immediate emergency has passed, a CMHA news release stated. “Counselling may help people experiencing anxiety or depression, stress related to displacement, recovery or rebuilding, relationship or family difficulties, or ongoing emotional impacts connected to the floods.”

How to access free counselling

• Review the counsellors listed at kamloops.cmha.bc.ca/merritt and choose a counsellor who may be a good fit for your needs.
• Contact the counsellor directly using the information provided to arrange an initial conversation.
• The counsellor will provide a no-obligation initial consultation to help determine whether the service is right for you.
• If you choose to proceed, counselling through the program is provided at no cost.

Counselling is confidential, delivered by qualified professionals, and available through secure video, telephone and in-person options.

Residents can learn more by emailing merrittrecovery@cmhakamloops.ca, visiting kamloops.cmha.bc.ca/merritt or calling 250-374-0440.