EAST ELMHURST, NY — The First Baptist Church on Astoria Boulevard officially unveiled its new Hope and Grace Mental Health Wellness Center over the weekend, marking a significant expansion in local mental health services. The center, operated in collaboration with Northwell Health, will provide free mental health services to community members.
The launch ceremony, held on Sunday, featured local leaders and health officials who expressed optimism about the center’s potential to address mental health needs. Dr. John Young, Senior Vice President of Behavioral Health at Northwell, highlighted the center’s role in bridging gaps in mental health care. “We’re facing a mental health crisis both locally and nationally. The Hope and Grace Center represents a significant step in integrating mental health care into a trusted community setting, which we hope will reduce stigma and increase comfort,” Young said.
The new wellness center will offer evidence-based behavioral therapy sessions by appointment at no cost. Services will be available to individuals aged eight and up, including seniors over 65. The center’s staff will also provide referrals and coordinate care management for additional needs.
Dr. Edgar Hobbs Jr., a cultural psychologist with over 25 years of experience, will lead the center. Hobbs, a licensed mental health counselor trained in crisis intervention, has previously conducted seminars on domestic violence for the church.
Rev. Patrick Young of First Baptist Church emphasized the center’s dual role as both a safe space for mental health care and a model for successful partnerships between faith-based organizations and health institutions. “The center will serve as a valuable resource for youth, families, and older residents in their own neighborhood, while showcasing how faith communities can collaborate with health providers,” Young said.
Assemblymember-elect Larinda Hooks, who recently won the Democratic primary for Assembly District 35, attended the event and shared a personal connection to the initiative. “This is a wonderful addition for our community, especially for our youth. It marks the beginning of a positive change,” Hooks remarked, noting that her daughter benefited from a similar program earlier in the summer.
The First Baptist Church, already known for its community services, will continue to support residents through its weekly food pantry, clothing distributions, back-to-school giveaways, and vaccine clinics.
The opening ceremony concluded with a ribbon-cutting event and a performance by Leelanee Sterrett of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, celebrating the launch of this vital community resource.
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