New York City is taking a significant step in supporting residents grappling with severe mental illness by opening 13 new clubhouses across its boroughs. Mayor Eric Adams revealed the initiative was fueled by a $30 million investment of city and state dollars. These clubhouses, which function as community-driven environments with a track record of effectiveness, are delivered as part of the ongoing "End the Culture of Anything Goes" campaign aimed at overhauling the culture and laws that have historically restricted access to necessary support for those with mental illness.
In a statement obtained by the NYC Office of the Mayor, Mayor Adams stated, “For those struggling with mental illness, clubhouses are a game-changer. These are free member-led spaces where New Yorkers can do everything from accessing health or legal benefits to finding employment or educational services.” He highlighted the administration's commitment to doubling enrollment to 6,600 members by 2027, spotlighting both the expansion of access and the importance of care. The Mayor's focused efforts include tackling severe mental illness with measures like housing with wraparound services and targeted outreach.
The concept behind the clubhouses is to create free, member-led spaces tailored to adults experiencing severe mental illness. These spaces foster social connections while providing access to a range of resources, including benefits, health and legal services, and employment and educational services—all within a backing community of peers. Reflecting the varied requirements and aspirations of their members, the activities within these clubhouses can range from offering language lessons and cooking sessions to producing group newsletters.
With the needs of socially isolated individuals in mind, the 13 newly contracted clubhouses are scattered across the city, with multiple locations in each borough, as detailed on the NYC Office of the Mayor's announcement. Each clubhouse was chosen through a competitive request for proposals, ensuring a high standard of care and service. New Yorkers diagnosed with serious mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and severe depression—to name a few—now have more opportunities for engagement and recovery in their communities.
The initiative has received praise from various officials and organization leaders. “Our city is experiencing a growing mental health crisis that demands a unified, compassionate response from all of us,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson. "Goodwill Industries of New York and New Jersey is excited to be a part of the New York City expansion of the evidence-based, community-focused Behavioral Health Clubhouse in the Bronx and Queens," Katy Gaul-Stigge, president and CEO, Goodwill Industries of Greater NY and New Jersey, added, signaling a strong community commitment to addressing the complex issue of mental illness, as per the NYC Office of the Mayor.
These clubhouses are an integral part of a broader strategy to support not just individuals, but to also strengthen the mental health support infrastructure. Fountain House CEO Ken Zimmerman emphasized the role clubhouses play in addressing isolation—one of the most detrimental aspects of serious mental illness—and using public resources efficiently. In this concerted effort to bolster mental wellbeing, New Yorkers can locate a clubhouse by visiting the DOHMH's “Serious Mental Illness” page or by calling 311 for assistance. For immediate mental health and substance use support, individuals are encouraged to call or text 988 to connect with trained professionals.
