West Fraser Grant Boosts Rural Mental Health Outreach in SC

Mental Health America of South Carolina (MHASC) is making significant strides to enhance mental health support in rural communities across the state, driven by a valuable collaboration with Mental Health America National and West Fraser, a prominent global wood products company. This partnership has enabled MHASC to secure essential funding aimed at extending vital mental health services to rural areas of South Carolina, particularly targeting smaller towns that often lack adequate access to mental health resources. By prioritizing these underserved areas, MHASC is committed to improving the overall mental health landscape in our communities.

The outreach efforts commenced with the distribution of informative letters and resource packets to local faith leaders, recognizing the pivotal role they play in community engagement. In observance of Suicide Prevention Month in September, these materials contained valuable bulletin announcements, bilingual resources in both English and Spanish, and details about the Mental Health 101 sessions that are available both in-person and online. Additionally, they emphasized the free mental health screenings that can be accessed through the Mental Health America website, ensuring that individuals know where to find help when needed.

One of the standout programs introduced by MHASC to faith communities is the engaging initiative titled “I.C. Hope/Don’t Duck Mental Health.” This program features a playful duck mascot and is designed to communicate to both children and adults that mental illness is a legitimate and treatable condition. The curriculum is not only educational but also interactive, equipped with teaching resources for educators and adults, along with enjoyable items such as coloring pages, stickers, and craft supplies for creating paper sack puppets. This initiative is a fun and effective way to promote awareness about mental health across different age groups.

In collaboration with MHA National, MHASC has also developed a distinctive QR code linked to MHA’s National Prevention and Screening Program. This will allow them to gain insights into how residents of South Carolina utilize mental health screenings. Moving forward, MHASC plans to expand its outreach in rural areas, leveraging the generous grant from West Fraser. Upcoming initiatives include providing more comprehensive training in Mental Health First Aid, organizing suicide awareness programs, and actively participating in community events to disseminate information about available mental health resources.

Moreover, MHASC has been actively engaged in various other projects as well. Over the past year, the organization undertook a complete redesign of their website to enhance user experience and accessibility. They also hosted two significant conferences—one dedicated to suicide prevention and another tailored for peer supporters. Both of these impactful events were made possible through a grant from the South Carolina Department of Mental Health, and excitingly, plans are already underway for additional conferences in 2025 to continue the momentum of awareness and education.

In addition to their rural outreach efforts, MHASC has maintained a consistent presence at Soda City Market, a vibrant weekly market located in downtown Columbia. There, staff members set up an informative table featuring Mental Health America materials, alongside resources from partner organizations such as the local chapters of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the National Alliance on Mental Illness. This collaborative approach allows MHASC to connect with an even broader audience, ensuring that vital information reaches those who may benefit from it.

Lastly, MHASC proudly celebrated its 70th anniversary with a festive 70s-themed party! Despite the challenges posed by the rain from Hurricane Helene, which impacted parts of South Carolina and neighboring states like North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia, the organization was determined to commemorate this significant milestone. Their thoughts are with all those affected by the storm, highlighting their commitment to community solidarity and support.