History

 
Laing House founders, Rosemary and Keith Hamilton, have a personal commitment to mental health. Rosemary's mother, Norah Laing, coped with schizophrenia most of her adult life. During that time she served as a nurse in World War II, married and raised a family. She coped in silence, at a time when mental illness was hidden and very much a social taboo.
Years later, when the Hamiltons’ own child was diagnosed with a mental illness, they faced the challenge of providing help through an unhappy and isolating time. Despite the fact they had access to professionals, they encountered a lack of resources for young adults in the community in terms of finding a job, rebuilding friendships and succeeding at independent living.

Based on their experience, the Hamiltons became determined to take an active role in creating a new resource for youth with mental illness. Their vision was to create a place with a welcoming and safe environment that could be a launching point for young people to begin to rebuild their lives. At this place youth could connect with peers who also live with mental illness, get support, access resources in the community, and begin to experience hope for their futures.
Today their vision is realized in Laing House, named in honour of Norah Laing.
If you would like to contact Laing House directly please call or email us. We'd love to hear from you!