Kathy Mochnacki met Bob Veltheer in 2010 at a family support group for caregivers of loved ones suffering from mental illness in Richmond Hill. 

Mochnacki and Veltheer each had their own experiences dealing with the often frustrating aspects of the (Canadian) mental health care system and insufficient housing models for adults with severe mental illness. They agreed that the system in its current form just didn’t cut it.  

“There really was no apparent communication between families and the mainstream mental health housing system,” said Mochnacki. The pair put their heads together and Home on the Hill became a reality in 2011. Veltheer was tragically killed by his own son, who continues to struggle from schizophrenia today, in February 2016. Mochnacki is determined now more than ever to support the mental health community. 

Home on the Hill is moving away from the old unaffordable housing model for adults struggling with mental health issues and is working to mould its very own housing strategy. The hope for the model is that it will include a housing facility that would afford independence for those who suffer and their families the knowledge that they are safe and secure. The housing model is set to be completed by September 2018. 

Mochnacki gets inspired from helping her own son cope with his illness. “What the public sees is a young man with a disheveled appearance, but I, on a day-to-day basis, see the struggle he has,” she said. 

Mochnacki is set on helping create a world that is accepting of those who are affected by mental illness and their families.