Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office has announced $6.3 million is being allocated to establish mental health resources in regions across New York.
The funding will create voluntary, member-driven clubhouse programs that provide services and support to New Yorkers living with mental health challenges.
The funding, which is coming from the State Office of Mental Health, will expand the program to areas outside of New York City, where advocates say it has provided social support, employment resources and life skills training.
OMH provided awards to seven programs, including five in upstate:
Access Supports for Living, $1.4 million (Westchester County)
East House, $1.4 million (Monroe County)
RISE, $956,765 (Saratoga County)
Unity House, $551,175 (Cayuga County)
St. John’s Community Services, $551,175 (Oswego County)
“People who have experienced mental challenges and recovered can be an invaluable beacon to guide others on this journey,” Hochul said. “Clubhouses provide a safe environment where New Yorkers grappling with mental health challenges can voluntarily get support from people who have experienced and navigated them firsthand.”
The governor’s office says state-funded programs will be required to operate at least five days a week, plus offer routine recreational activities during evenings and weekends out of their own physical space.