Mental Health Association in Chautauqua County

Target demographics: adults with mental health or substance use issues

Direct beneficiaries per year: over 600 individuals

Geographic areas served: Chautauqua County

Programs: Advocacy - Provides support groups, peer support and education, recovery coaching/guides, referrals and access to care, and community support to individuals and their families affected by mental health and chemical dependency issues. STRAWW - Southern Tier Recovery Activities Without Walls is a multi-county, peer-driven recovery center in New York State, funded by the New York State Office of Mental Health, to assist individuals in mental health recovery. OPEN - Occupational Peer Empowerment Network is a career-focused support system providing education, resources, advocacy, and encouragement to attain, retain, and maintain stable employment; funded by the Empire State Poverty Reduction Initiative through United Way of Southern Chautauqua County Treatment Court Navigation - Provides support toward following the guidelines of and successfully completing treatment court Family Court Support - As part of the Better For Families program, offers guidance, encouragement, and resources for individuals engaging with family court. Jail Outreach - Through a partnership with the Chautauqua County Jail system, a peer coach meets with individuals during their incarceration to help them plan for their release with information and resources to avoid falling into the same habits that got them there. Overdose Response - With a connection to the Overdose Detection Mapping Application Program and cooperation from area law enforcement and critical response, connects with individuals and their families shortly after an overdose event to provide comfort, support, education, guidance, resources, and encouragement toward safer habits and practices. Emergency Department Connection - In cooperation with UPMC Chautauqua, provides a presence in the hospital to advocate for and provide guidance to individuals with mental health and chemical dependence issues in stressful situations, as well as educate staff on resources and techniques available for treatment. Transportation - Provides participants with free transportation to medical, court, employment, or treatment related appointments. Community Outreach - Offers groups at other locations in the community; holds events to educate, advocate, and connect the public; supports positive and healthy activities.