MARTIN COUNTY, FL. – Suncoast Mental Health Center, a nonprofit organization serving Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties, announced it will close its doors on February 14 due to financial difficulties. The closure has left local communities in shock and has further strained the already limited mental health resources in the region.
Michelle Miller, Director of Martin County Human Services, expressed disappointment over the news, noting the center’s strong reputation in the community. “Anytime we lose a mental health provider, it creates fewer services, and that’s always troublesome for us to hear,” she told WPTV reporter Cassandra Garcia.
Financial Struggles and Community Impact
In a statement posted on the organization’s website, CEO Debra Engle explained that the closure was a result of ongoing financial struggles. “We are deeply grateful for the trust and partnership we’ve shared with individuals, families, funders, and community partners throughout the years,” Engle wrote. “While this closure saddens us, we are committed to assisting our clients through this transition.”
Suncoast Mental Health Center, which has been operating for 27 years, has played a pivotal role in providing mental health services to local residents. As the community grapples with the loss, the demand for mental health care continues to rise.
“We do see a lot of need for mental health services in the community,” Miller said. “It does seem to be increasing year over year.” She also highlighted a reduction in available providers, which has led to longer wait times at remaining facilities.
Rising Demand for Mental Health Services
The closure of Suncoast Mental Health Center comes amid an increasing need for mental health services in Martin County. Miller emphasized that individuals in crisis should not be left waiting. “We don’t want people who are in a crisis to be on a wait-list,” she said, stressing the need for more providers to reduce wait times and increase resources for residents seeking help.
To help those affected by the closure, Miller recommended that individuals seeking mental health care contact 211, a crisis hotline that can provide a comprehensive list of available providers. “Based on your circumstances and your needs, it can point you in the right direction,” she explained.
As the community faces this loss of a key mental health resource, local leaders are looking for ways to expand services and address the growing mental health needs in the region.
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