I support of the proposed funding for the African American Wellness Hubs, to train culturally congruent frontline workers, led by the Oakland Frontline Healers and the Association of Black Psychologists.
The Black community in Oakland has been impacted by a variety of stressors due to a myriad of issues, including long-standing racism and lack of equity and opportunity, further compounded by the fallout from COVID-19, the ever-growing housing crisis, and lack of adequate resources which are culturally responsive and African-centered.
Many Black individuals do not trust mainstream institutions for mental health care. We need mental health & wellness providers who reflect the community, and who can provide culturally responsive services. Our community members also need services they can access same-day, and not to have to endure a painstakingly long process to access mental health services.
I would like to thank Vice-Mayor Kaplan for proposing this funding, and I urge the Oakland City Council to approve funding in the amount of $250,000 towards this project.
Respectfully,
Melissa Hellums, Executive Director
Sister to Sister 2 dba Serenity House
I support of the proposed funding for the African American Wellness Hubs, to train culturally congruent frontline workers, led by the Oakland Frontline Healers and the Association of Black Psychologists.
The Black community in Oakland has been impacted by a variety of stressors due to a myriad of issues, including long-standing racism and lack of equity and opportunity, further compounded by the fallout from COVID-19, the ever-growing housing crisis, and lack of adequate resources which are culturally responsive and African-centered.
Many Black individuals do not trust mainstream institutions for mental health care. We need mental health & wellness providers who reflect the community, and who can provide culturally responsive services. Our community members also need services they can access same-day, and not to have to endure a painstakingly long process to access mental health services.
I would like to thank Vice-Mayor Kaplan for proposing this funding, and I urge the Oakland City Council to approve funding in the amount of $250,000 towards this project.
Respectfully,
Melissa Hellums, Executive Director
Sister to Sister 2 dba Serenity House