In 2017, five women in Montgomery noticed a big problem: there weren’t enough mental health resources for people who needed help. They came together to create Mosaics of Mercy, a nonprofit dedicated to guiding the community through the maze of mental health and substance abuse resources.
Executive Director Jamie Freels-Runey emphasizes the profound impact of having knowledgeable support. “Understanding the mental health system can be life-changing for those struggling,” she says.
How It Works
Mosaics of Mercy started with a simple notebook filled with local mental health provider information. Since then, it has significantly expanded. After COVID-19, Montgomery County faced a troubling rise in suicide rates. In response, the Behavioral and Suicide Prevention Task Force was formed to tackle this issue collaboratively.
With funding from the county, Mosaics of Mercy developed a comprehensive database with over 2,000 verified resources. The organization employs a team of licensed technicians and clinicians to ensure that individuals are matched with the right services within 40 business hours. They provide a range of services, including support groups, residential treatment options, and counseling from qualified psychologists and psychiatrists.
When someone reaches out for help, they receive three tailored provider recommendations along with a follow-up call 72 hours later to check in on their progress. Runey shares their mission: “We want to connect people to appropriate mental health services in a timely manner.”
Local Impact
To broaden their reach, Mosaics of Mercy partnered with Memorial Hermann Hospital, helping patients access necessary mental health resources. They also collaborate with local juvenile courts and schools to provide support to at-risk youth. Runey points out, “If we can step in early, we can help young people change their paths before they turn 18.”
The nonprofit’s initiatives are supported by events like the Mosaics of Mercy Gala and the Run For Jeev, funded by the Tomball Regional Health Foundation. These efforts allow them to assist not only Montgomery County but also neighboring areas like Harris and Grimes.
In 2024, Mosaics of Mercy launched a scholarship program aimed at middle-class families who don’t qualify for free mental health services but still need help. This program has already supported 21 individuals, covering 12 to 24 counseling sessions each.
Mosaics of Mercy has built strong relationships throughout their work, connecting with over 250 mental health clinicians through The Woodlands Mental Health Professional Group. This collaboration helps them increase resources and support for those in need in their community.
Statistics show that mental health struggles are growing, with one in five adults in the U.S. experiencing mental illness each year. As communities like Montgomery face these challenges, organizations like Mosaics of Mercy are essential for delivering the support people need.
For more insights and resources, you can check out Mosaics of Mercy and the Behavioral and Suicide Prevention Task Force.
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