OTTAWA COUNTY, Mich. – In response to the increasing need for mental health services in Ottawa County, Mosaic Counseling has received a $250,000 grant from the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (GHACF) to expand its “You Matter Campaign.” The grant will enhance the organization’s ability to provide mental health care to more residents, particularly youth, and extend its reach into neighboring Kent County.
Sarah Lewakowski, the executive director of Mosaic Counseling, emphasizes the critical need for accessible mental health support in the community. “We are committed to ensuring that no one feels alone, especially young people struggling with mental health issues,” Lewakowski said. The grant will allow the non-profit to expand its outreach and improve access to affordable counseling services, addressing the rising mental health concerns among local youth.
Since 2020, the percentage of Ottawa County residents reporting mild to moderate mental health challenges has increased from 17% to 27%, highlighting the growing demand for support. The funding will help Mosaic Counseling enhance its outpatient counseling services and strengthen its School Outreach Program, which provides free, professional mental health services to students who may not have access to care otherwise.
“Mental health services, especially for youth, are critical in our community,” said Holly Cole, vice president of grants and programs at GHACF. “Health and human services is one of our key focus areas, and we are proud to support Mosaic Counseling’s efforts to meet these urgent needs.”
The $250,000 grant to Mosaic Counseling is part of GHACF’s latest round of Community Impact Grants, which total more than $745,000. The foundation has awarded over $1.8 million in grants this year, supporting a variety of initiatives across the region. Other notable grants in this round include:
Community Mental Health of Ottawa County: $30,000 to expand the reach of its Crisis Intervention Team with a dedicated vehicle for northern Ottawa County.
Foundation for Muskegon Community College: $30,000 to complete a multi-purpose space for music programs, lectures, and community events.
Good Samaritan: $30,000 for an Emergency Housing Stabilization Fund to prevent homelessness in northern Ottawa County.
Goodwill Industries of West Michigan: $250,000 to support a recycling innovation project that converts textile waste into valuable cellulose products.
Grand Haven Charter Township: $35,739 for improvements to Schmidt Heritage Park, including upgrades to trails, fencing, signage, and equipment.
Ottawa County Parks Foundation: $50,000 to support the Rosy Mound Vision Campaign, expanding public access while preserving natural areas.
Northern Initiatives: $20,000 for loans and coaching to support local entrepreneurs through the Healthy Grand Haven Businesses program.
Tri-Cities Historical Museum: $50,000 for renovations to enhance the museum’s front window into an interactive exhibit on the area’s maritime history.
The grant to Mosaic Counseling underscores the foundation’s commitment to addressing mental health challenges in the community and fostering a healthier, more resilient region.
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