AT&T Contribution helps NAMI Hillsborough Expand Services

Tampa FL

20 December, 2020

10:09 AM

Description

NAMI HIllsborough, a nonprofit that serves individuals and families affected by mental illness, will be able to provide more support to community members thanks to a $4,500 contribution from AT&T. AT&T awarded the money as part of an initiative to provide funding and resources to Tampa Bayarea nonprofit organizations impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. Since the pandemic began, thedemand for mental health services significantly increased in Tampa Bay and throughout thecountry. Many industry experts say the next pandemic to hit American soil will be relative tomental health. "Since April, calls and emails requesting support have tripled," said NAMI Hillsborough ExecutiveDirector Natasha A. Pierre. "We are grateful for AT&T's donation that will ensure NAMIHIllsborough can continue to educate our community and to support those who need it most.Until support can increase at the state level, NAMI Hillsborough can fill the gap. We're goingthrough this pandemic together, and we do not want anyone to feel like they are facing italone." Historically, Florida has not supported mental health funding as aggressively as other states,Pierre said. Florida currently ranks last in the nation for per-person spending for mental healthservices, spending about $36 per person. NAMI Hillsborough offers education, support and advocacy for those affected by mental illnessin Hillsborough County, and they continue to offer three remote support groups each week thatare open to anyone experiencing a mental health crisis. "At AT&T, we know COVID-19 has impacted community members in many ways, and has led tomental health issues in Tampa Bay and beyond. We are fortunate that NAMI Hillsborough is aresource for the community and happy that we can help NAMI continue this important work,"said AT&T Regional Director Andrew Hall. About NAMI Hillsborough NAMI Hillsborough envisions a County where all people affected bymental illness are leading healthy, fulfilling lives supported by a community that cares. NAMIHillsborough will be the thought and knowledge leader on mental illness in Hillsborough County and will contribute to ensuring a stigma-free county where all people affected by mental illness can find the help, hope, and support they need. *