In conjunction with Mental Health Awareness Month, Catholic Medical Center (CMC), part of HCA Healthcare, has announced a $25,000 investment to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Manchester to expand several new mental health and wellness programming initiatives for teens and tweens.
Research shows that early intervention and support can significantly improve teen and tweens’ emotional resilience and reduce the risk of mental health issues. This funding from CMC will help Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Manchester explore ways to engage more with their tweens and teens and support the following five initiatives:
- Opening a Zen Den where teens can decompress
- Creation of a teen resource closet stocked with hygiene products and mindfulness tools
- Facilitation of an empowerment course for teenage girls
- Production of Mental Health Awareness T-shirts
- Participation in a six-week equestrian therapy program for teens
“We recognize the need to provide mental health programming as we have seen firsthand a notable rise in issues including anxiety, depression and behavioral problems,” said Diane Fitzpatrick, chief executive officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Manchester. “We are deeply committed to supporting the overall health and well-being of our members and are grateful to Catholic Medical Center for their support through this award to empower and uplift our youth by providing a safe, nurturing environment where children and teens can thrive.”
The award is part of the HCA Healthcare’s commitment to contribute a total of $2 million over the next three years to local community health initiatives.
“We are excited to partner with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Manchester to help improve the health of all in our communities,” said John Skevington, chief executive officer of Catholic Medical Center. “By supporting mental health programming on campus, together we can help bridge the gap in access to care and provide children with the tools and support they need to thrive emotionally and socially.”