The Los Alamos Community Foundation (LACF) recently teamed up with Anchorum Health Foundation and Christus St. Vincent to distribute $52,750 to five local non-profits focused on health and wellness, particularly in mental health. This funding aims to support essential services for the community.
Program Manager Brandi Weiss expressed excitement about this partnership, emphasizing the importance of strengthening local organizations to help foster a healthier Los Alamos.
Here’s how the funds were allocated:
- Los Alamos Family Council: $10,000 to maintain mental health counseling services for at-risk individuals, especially those facing financial challenges.
- Los Alamos Juvenile Justice Advisory Board (JJAB): $5,000 to expand Youth Mental Health First Aid training, focusing on early intervention for youth in crisis.
- Family Strengths Network: $5,000 to create a monthly support group for women dealing with separation or divorce.
- First Born Program of Los Alamos County: $7,000 to provide essential baby supplies and nutrition education for financially vulnerable families.
- Los Alamos Community Foundation: $25,750 to launch a mental health training initiative aimed at training 1,000 residents in suicide prevention over the next two years.
Jerry Jones, President and CEO of Anchorum, praised LACF’s dedication to listening to the community and addressing its mental health needs. This kind of focused effort shows the strong relationship LACF has built within Los Alamos.
Recent studies emphasize the rising demand for mental health support, highlighting the importance of local initiatives like these. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five adults in the U.S. experienced mental illness in 2021. Programs like those funded by LACF can make a real difference.
Grants from the Anchorum Community Health Fund reflect a commitment to innovative solutions for improving health and wellness in northern New Mexico. These investments in community health can foster connections and create a supportive environment for residents.
For more details, you can visit the Los Alamos Community Foundation.
Established in 2015, LACF works to enhance the quality of life in Los Alamos and support local non-profits. With over $1.5 million in assets and 17 endowed funds, it plays a vital role in community philanthropy.