Providers Share Mental Health and Wellness, Substance Use and Anti-Violence Resources at Haverhill Fair

Helen Sheehan, executive director and founder of Eammon's Heart Foundation for Prevention and Recovery, seated, was one of the presenters. (Courtesy photograph.)

A coalition of agencies comprising the Greater Haverhill System of Care came together recently to support one another and showcase mental health and wellness resources and support in the Merrimack Valley.

The Greater Haverhill System of Care hosted its first resource fair at the UMass Lowell Innovation Hub in downtown Haverhill. More than 30 vendors from various agencies and organizations educated other community providers and members on the services they provide. Organizers say the participants provide support to families, youth and adults struggling with mental health and wellness, substance use, violence in the home or community and other challenges.

“I’ve heard from so many of the providers here today that this event has been so impactful in helping them get the resources they need to better serve the families and youth they work with. We will definitely be holding this event again next year, or sooner!” said Dr. Shanyn A. Toulouse, northeast regional school nurse consultant hosted by Haverhill Public Schools.

Toulouse and Stephanie Gargiulo, who manages the Community Service Agency hosted by Beth Israel Lahey Health and Behavioral Services, have been co-facilitated monthly meetings with community leaders and service providers in the Greater Haverhill area for more than four years.

“It was such a fantastic time of meeting fellow providers, putting names to faces, and celebrating the work we all do. It was truly a special day! I was thrilled to be a part of it,” said Jeanne Geiger Crisis Center Domestic Violence Advocate Kelly Surette.

The Greater Haverhill System of Care services Amesbury, Boxford, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Ipswich, Merrimac, Newbury, Newburyport, Rowley, Salisbury, Topsfield and West Newbury. The committee meets monthly.

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