In recognition of its diligent efforts to support mental health initiatives, the city of Sterling Heights was honored with the Mental Health Matters Board of Directors Award, an accolade that spotlights the ongoing commitment to mental well-being across the Macomb County. At the Mental Health Matters Awards Celebration, hosted at Macomb Community College South Campus, representatives from Sterling Heights received the award before a crowd of 250 attendees last Thursday, as reported by the City of Sterling Heights' official announcement.
The Mental Health Matters Awards, now in their third year, praise the efforts of groups and individuals who have distinguished themselves in Macomb County through their work in mental health awareness and support, the city's initiatives include hiring mental health case managers to collaborate with the police and fire departments, forming a Safe Home Task Force for issues like hoarding, creating innovative substance abuse programs such as the Quick Response Team, and preparing to launch a co-responder pilot program blending crisis response with mental health expertise the city's police department also offers a 40-hour Crisis Intervention Training and recently announced a special needs registry.
"Mental health advocacy is one of the best ways to promote well-being within your community, and I’m so pleased this award recognizes our city's unwavering commitment to supporting mental health initiatives and building a community where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued," Sterling Heights Mayor Michael C. Taylor told the City of Sterling Heights' official news outlet. He continued to stress the city's objective of combatting stigmas and prioritizing mental health for all residents.
According to Traci Smith, CEO of MCCMH, "Our honorees inspire communities through their selflessness, advocacy, and commitment to delivering quality care," and she emphasized the beneficial impact the honorees have on the county's overall quality of life especially so since Mental Health Awareness Month is a period meant for reflection and action on these critical community issues, as per the City of Sterling Heights.
