News & Updates
Our Stories
Apr 22, 2026
Finding the Right Place to Move Forward
Ian Cooper was the first man to walk through the doors of Johnson Manor. This is his story — and why it matters for the 19 men who followed him.“I…
Mar 26, 2026
Recovery House to Offer Long-Term Stays (CBC)
Cool Aid’s Manager of Recovery Housing, Evan James, speaks with CBC’s Jason D’Souza on All Points West about our new recovery housing program – how it’s unique, when it will…
Feb 27, 2026
Compassionate Care at Cool Aid Dental
Since the launch of the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) in 2023, we’re often asked why Cool Aid still needs outside funding for our dental clinic. We asked clinic manager…
Feb 25, 2026
Giving Back and Honouring Her Daughter’s Life
You can hear deep emotion in Melanie Ehrlich’s voice as she talks about her daughter, Emily Maya, who passed away almost a year ago. Melanie remembers Emily Maya’s love of…
Dec 05, 2025
Cool Aid to Open Recovery Housing
The province has announced new “recovery-oriented” housing for Victoria through a partnership with the city and the Victoria Cool Aid Society. Known as Johnson Manor, the housing site at…
Oct 20, 2025
Volunteer Spotlight: Andrew and Elliot Sewell
A year ago, Andrew Sewell, a teacher at Pearson College, started supervising a group of student volunteers at our Rock Bay Landing emergency shelter. He says, “I liked it…
Oct 20, 2025
Home, Health, and Connection for Seniors
“I can look at the mountains and see bald eagles. It’s like I’ve died and gone to heaven,” says Andrew Petrie, reflecting on the view from his new Crosstown apartment.
Aug 14, 2025
Brian’s Legacy – An Inspiration to Us All
When Ron Morgan first met him, Brian was cautious, and sometimes cantankerous. He’d come to the drop-in centre where Ron offers pastoral care for a meal. Over countless coffees, Brian…
Jun 05, 2025
Supporter Profile – Al and Lorraine Kemp
“We’re honoured to significantly support the development of Crosstown. It’s a unique facility that’s greatly needed in our community.” Al Kemp is talking about why he and his wife, Lorraine,…
Jun 05, 2025
The Dr. Joe Haegert Community Health Centre at Crosstown
Dr. Joe Haegert is the founder of Cool Aid’s health care program, known for his everlasting kindness and establishing low barrier, trauma-informed care. “We’re very proud that the new community…
Jun 05, 2025
An Unexpected Life-line
“In my life I’ve had money and I’ve had nothing, but without your health, it just makes everything so much worse.” You can hear the emotion in Dennis’s voice as…
Mar 26, 2025
Independence and a Fresh Start
Read Jarad’s story of moving forward, one step at a time. “I’m really grateful to have a new studio apartment in a building that is clean and modern. Plus,…