Among the 34 grants awarded by The Guilford Foundation using funds allocated to the Town of Guilford by the American Rescue Plan Act is $30,000 to BHcare to help support a new regional facility that will open in June 2024. BHcare is a certified community behavioral health clinic designated by the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services as the local mental health authority for Guilford, Madison, Branford, East Haven, North Branford, and North Haven. 

The organization was already outgrowing its outdated Branford facility and satellite offices when the pandemic emerged as a major factor in mental health and addiction services. The physical space was no longer adequate or suited to BHcare’s clientele, and the pandemic amplified the need for a more modern, centrally located facility.

“All of our clients were affected by the pandemic,” explains Michael Wynne, community engagement specialist. “The rate of domestic violence went us as victims were essentially housebound. Families were struggling to keep a balance while their kids were home. For vulnerable kids, to begin with, COVID exacerbated the situation. Those with mental health and addiction issues became more isolated. And while our client’s needs went up, our fundraising went down. The ARPA funds will help to offset that loss.” 

The new facility in North Branford will include separate entrances and treatment spaces for adults and families with children. There will be comfortable, cozy spaces for group therapy and individual therapy with age-appropriate decor and up-to-date employee-friendly spaces like a break room and kitchen for the staff. The grant from TGF and similar grants from other towns will be used specifically for furnishings and equipment in the two (child-friendly and adult) reception areas. 

Roberta J. Cook, president and CEO of BHcare, said of the construction project, “As we break ground for our new Shoreline location, we are not only constructing a new facility, we are building hope, healing, and a brighter future for countless individuals who will benefit from the services offered here.”

To view the 2023 Impact Report, click here.