In a significant step toward improving mental health access in Chicago, Mayor Brandon Johnson officially reopened the Roseland Mental Health Clinic, now renamed the Roseland Health Hub, on January 13. Located at 200 E. 115th St., this facility marks a major milestone in the city’s commitment to expanding no-cost healthcare services for residents, regardless of immigration or insurance status. The newly reimagined health hub is set to provide an extensive range of mental health and sexual health services to the community.
A Promise Kept
At the reopening ceremony, Mayor Johnson celebrated the fulfillment of a key promise to improve mental health care in the city, emphasizing the collaboration between key stakeholders such as AFSCME, the Illinois Nurses Association (INA), and the Teamsters Union. Additionally, input from over 400 community members who offered feedback over the past year shaped the vision for the facility. “This is a promise made and a promise kept,” said Mayor Johnson. “Together, we are building safer, stronger communities with a whole-government approach.”
Comprehensive Services for All
The Roseland Health Hub offers a variety of services, including:
Mental Health Services: Individual and family therapy to address emotional, behavioral, and traumatic challenges.
Sexual Health Services: Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, mpox vaccinations, and PrEP (Pre-exposure Prophylaxis) to prevent HIV.
Psychiatric Care: Walk-in psychiatric medication management available at the center and other Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) mental health centers.
These services are available to residents as young as six years old at no charge, eliminating concerns about insurance or the ability to pay. Dr. Olusimbo “Simbo” Ige, CDPH Commissioner, emphasized the health hub’s role in providing holistic, community-centered care that goes beyond just mental health to address broader health needs, including social services.
Expanding Behavioral Health Crisis Response
The reopening of the Roseland Health Hub also coincides with the expansion of the Crisis Assistance Response and Engagement (CARE) program, a citywide initiative aimed at providing mental health support during behavioral health crises. Initially piloted with the Chicago Fire Department and Chicago Police Department, the program now operates fully under the CDPH.
CARE teams, consisting of clinicians and emergency medical technicians (EMTs), respond to 9-1-1 calls flagged for mental health concerns. They provide de-escalation, conduct mental health assessments, and offer referrals to community-based services. These teams also follow up with individuals to ensure continuity of care. Mayor Johnson announced that CARE would expand to Districts 4 and 12, serving neighborhoods such as Avalon Park, South Chicago, Burnside, and the Lower West Side. Additionally, a Special Cases team will address specific mental health emergencies referred directly to CDPH.
Addressing Historical Health Inequities
This initiative is part of a broader effort to address the longstanding inequities in Chicago’s mental health infrastructure. Reflecting on a 1989 report commissioned by the late Mayor Harold Washington, Johnson noted how Chicago’s public mental health system once had 19 mental health centers, but subsequent administrations saw the closure of many facilities. Johnson’s administration is committed to reversing this trend and investing in underserved communities to ensure equitable access to mental health services.
Innovative Health Solutions
The Roseland Health Hub also stands out for its innovative resources, including vending machines stocked with essentials such as sanitary products, condoms, blood pressure medication, and other items for immediate needs. This highlights the center’s commitment to meeting the diverse needs of the community, from children and postpartum mothers to individuals seeking help with substance use disorders and addiction counseling.
The People’s Vision for Mental and Behavioral Health
The reopening of the Roseland Health Hub is part of the city’s People’s Vision for Mental and Behavioral Health, a strategic plan developed by the Mental Health System Expansion Working Group in May 2024. The plan focuses on creating a continuum of care that integrates mobile crisis response, virtual consultations, and brick-and-mortar services, all designed to create a comprehensive network of support for residents in need.
Mayor Johnson’s Vision for Mental Health in Chicago
Mayor Johnson highlighted the importance of creating a healthcare system that prioritizes treatment over trauma and that provides support to all Chicagoans, regardless of their zip code. “For too long, emergency rooms and jails have served as de facto treatment centers, failing both patients and communities. We are taking decisive action to ensure every Chicagoan has access to critical care,” he said.
As part of his vision, Johnson’s administration continues to expand resources and create a robust mental health infrastructure to provide services that address the social determinants of health. Through efforts like the Roseland Health Hub and the CARE program, the city is laying the groundwork for a healthier, more supportive Chicago, focusing on mental health equity and accessible care for all.
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