MACON, Ga. (WGXA) — Macon Mental Health Matters (MMHM) is set to enhance its support for local residents with the help of a $500,000 grant from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), awarded on August 20. This funding, previously reported by WGXA, will enable MMHM to offer free individual therapy and therapeutic services to the community.
Headquartered at the Booker T. Washington Community Center in the Pleasant Hill neighborhood, MMHM has identified the 31204 ZIP code as the most frequent area of engagement with their services.
Gloria Cissé, lead therapist and CEO of the Southern Center for Choice Theory, highlighted that the organization aims to embody the principle of “taranga,” or hospitality, in welcoming individuals seeking mental health support. “We’re waiting for people to come and see us,” Cissé said. “We want to create an environment in our community where people know we’re here for them, and they are always welcome.”
MMHM’s diverse range of activities, including chess clubs, knitting groups, visual journaling sessions, and yoga pop-ups, is attracting attention from neighboring counties. Program director Andrea Cooke reported a current waiting list of 50 individuals. While she views this as a “good problem to have,” Cooke emphasized that the ARPA funding will be crucial in sustaining the services MMHM has provided for the past three and a half years. She also noted that there are approximately 160 counselors available for a city population nearing 160,000.
Community support for mental health funding can vary, but longtime volunteer Monica Miller underscored the importance of the investment. “Where does your money go? Visit the website and see the numerous small but significant initiatives happening,” Miller said. “We’re always running, but this funding helps us make a real difference.”
WGXA staff participated in a “Choosing Peace” class for children and a drumming circle, activities designed to promote mental wellness. Cooke described drumming as an effective yet simple method to help individuals recenter their minds and bodies.
Cissé remains steadfast in her belief that mental health is essential to overall well-being. “There is no health without mental health,” she asserted. “Everyone, regardless of age, gender, job, or background, can benefit from therapeutic activities and mental health support. Everybody needs someone to talk to and help them connect the pieces in their lives.”
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