Mental Health Task Force
To address community needs, fill gaps in services, and develop a comprehensive list of mental and behavioral health priorities, the McKenna Foundation established the Mental and Behavioral Task Force in 2014. Consisting of twenty-nine agencies united in vision and purpose, commitments have been made to bring the issues of mental and behavioral health to the forefront.
Mental Advocacy Partners
Inspired by the Mental Health Task Force, Mental Advocacy Partners (MAP) has become a go-to resource for those affected by mental health struggles. It provides a confidential and accessible connection between those in need and professionals who provide help and hope. MAP is dedicated to promoting a positive message of recovery and is actively working to reduce the stigma associated with mental health struggles through its website and social media campaigns.
Recent surveys indicate that around 37% of Texas adults live with symptoms of depressive disorder and or anxiety. In 2023, one in three Texas children experienced a mental health disorder. Locally, MAP partner, River City Advocacy has seen a 72% increase in counseling clients since 2021. They have also reported a 91% increase in peer support participants. The figures are exactly why the McKenna Foundation spearheaded MAP.
Engaged within the community, MAP has organized events like the screening of “ANGST,” a film that brings attention to the struggles of anxiety.
MAP partners have also been involved in various community activities, including the Comal County Fair & Parade, Household Hazardous Waste Drop Off, Mental Health Walks, and hosting several guest speakers.
MAP serves as a platform where compassionate organizations can share resource materials, coordinate services, organize mental health events throughout the community, and advocate for the uplifting message of recovery.
MAP Partners: McKenna Foundation, RecoveryWerks!, River City Advocacy, NBYC, SACADA, NB Housing Partners, In Mind Out, Hope Hospice, Hill County MHDD, First Footing, CRRC, Crisis Center of Comal County, Connections, CACCC, Bauntex, CASA, Communities in Schools, Affective Mental Wellness, Hill County Hope 4 Mental Health, Share Center, NB Angels, and more
Mobile Crisis Outreach Team
The Mobile Crisis Outreach Team (MCOT), is an evidence-based program designed to serve those in crisis and reduce the burden on law enforcement, hospitals, school districts, and other agencies.
Available 24/7/365, MCOT provides onsite crisis services including support, assessment, case management, and crisis follow-up. The team consists of mental health professionals rather than law enforcement officers, ensuring expedited mental health treatment and achieving the following goals:
- Decreased suicide completion
- Increased safety and access to care
- Increased housing stability
- Increased employment
- Psychiatric outreach and reduced psychiatric hospitalizations
970
individuals in crisis screened in 2023
548 |
safety plans made in 2023 |
7,225 |
lifesaving services from 2017-2022 |
5,135 |
referred to community partners from 2017-2022 |