July Newsletter: Take a Stand With Us
Take a Stand With Us
Dear Friends and Supporters,
This July has been an oppressive one for our client community–30% of whom are homeless upon intake. The recent heat wave is a stark reminder of how dangerous it is to be without housing. Extreme temperatures are dangerous for everyone, but they’re especially scary for individuals living outside in tents and encampments.
Another deeply concerning issue facing our community is the recent Supreme Court ruling on homelessness, which allows cities to penalize individuals for sleeping in public spaces. Instead of addressing the systemic issues contributing to homelessness, the ruling criminalizes the most vulnerable among us who are just trying to survive. This is unacceptable.
Read on to learn more about how we can stand up for the rights of our unhoused neighbors.
On a more positive note, July is also Bebe Moore Campbell Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, a time for raising awareness about the struggles faced by marginalized communities in accessing mental health care. The disparity is real, which is why we’re committed to providing culturally competent care that meets people where they are.
Our popular Dance-Movement Therapy program, featured in these pages, is an example of how we engage our community in activities of their choosing that motivate and inspire them to be their best selves. The Day Program also had a cookout recently in recognition of July 4th, which put a smile on everyone’s faces and hot meal in their bellies.
No matter what challenges lay ahead, we can ensure the safety and wellbeing of our community if we stick together. Thank you for your continued support of the McClendon Center family.
Warm regards,
Sheandinita Dyson
CEO, McClendon Center
