County Mental Health Public Forum to take place in Wassaic
Expanded Locations to Increase Awareness & Input
Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro announced the Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) will host a public forum on Thursday, October 17th to discuss the various programs and services available for those who have mental health and/or substance use issues, as well as allow residents to share feedback about what other resources are needed for themselves and their loved ones.
The forum will be held at the Wassaic Fire House, located at 23 Firehouse Road, Wassaic. The program will begin with free Narcan training at 5pm, with each person trained receiving a free Narcan kit. The public forum discussion will begin at 5:30pm.
The forum will also feature information about services offered by various community organizations, including Taconic Resources for Independence, Abilities First Outpatient Recovery Services, Independent Living, Lexington Center for Recovery and many others.
County Executive Molinaro said, “Join us as we talk about the many programs and services available as we continue our work ‘Breaking Through’ the stigma faced by those dealing with mental health and substance use issues. Our goal is to connect people with the help they need. Share your feedback about what is working and what is not. The feedback we receive during these public forums is critical for implementing effective change. Your participation and input can save lives!”
These public forums are critical in obtaining public input for the development of DBCH’s annual Local Governmental Plan, which establishes long-term goals and objectives. Forums are traditionally held in late winter/early spring; the October 17th forum is part of an initiative to expand the dates and locations to increase awareness and input.
DBCH Commissioner A. K. Vaidian, MD, MPH, said, “We welcome public input about our treatment, programs, and what other services may be needed, as such feedback helps guide the department’s decision-making moving forward, ensuring the best possible service to our community. We encourage residents to attend our forums and share their voices in these important dialogues.”
Individuals can also submit comments online at DutchessNY.gov/ForumComments; fax comments to (845) 486-2759, or mail to: DBCH Forum Comments, 230 North Rd, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.
# # #
