Get to know Zena Gopal: LOFT’s Director of Health and Community Services
Zena Gopal is a dedicated advocate for positive change and the Director of Health and Community Services in Supportive Housing at LOFT Community Services.
Zena collaborates with LOFT’s program staff, clients, and partner organizations to understand and assess LOFT’s healthcare needs across all supportive housing programs in Toronto and York Region. Her approach is rooted in empathy, focusing on a deep understanding of our clients’ most pressing challenges. For Zena, this is more than a job; it’s her passion. Witnessing the transformative impact of her work on people’s lives is what drives her each day.
“It’s important for me to understand our clients’ most urgent needs to develop meaningful services and program enhancements that respect their rights to safety, dignity, and optimal health.” Zena asserts.
“One of the most significant challenges in our community is the rising cost of living, especially for clients with limited or no income. Heightened living costs have greatly limited access to safe and sanitary housing.”
In addition to economic challenges, Zena is equally dedicated to combating the stigma faced by trans and non-binary individuals in our communities. She collaborates tirelessly with LOFT staff and partners to ensure equitable access to lifesaving, gender-affirming care for 2SLGBTQIA+ community members.
Zena emphasizes the profound importance of leading with empathy and kindness. She reiterates, “I’ve seen how much we can achieve by approaching our work with genuine compassion.”
Beyond her professional life, Zena’s interests include travelling, singing, and hiking. She also has a remarkable talent for baking and decorating cakes – a skill she generously shares with her colleagues, fostering community and connection beyond the workplace.
The LOFT Approach:
LOFT takes a holistic approach to address mental health and mental illness comprehensively.
As a dedicated mental health service provider, we work alongside community agencies, hospitals, and long-term care homes to offer expertise and support in addressing mental health, dementia, addictions, and other cognitive and behavioural challenges. Our mission is to ensure that individuals have access to the care they need, when and where they need it most. We work closely with each client to develop a treatment plan that aligns with their unique needs, meeting them where they are at.
Our unique care model targets each person’s physical, cognitive, emotional, and social needs. We aim to help our clients achieve optimal health and well-being while connecting them with a supportive community.
By understanding the distinction between mental health and mental illness and employing these strategies, you can take significant steps toward a healthier, happier life. Prioritizing your well-being is a life-long journey, and there is always time to start.