The City of Dallas celebrated the beginning of Mental Health Awareness month and their partnership with Harmony Community Development Corporation (CDC) by hosting a proclamation reading on May 8, 2024. Council Member Zarin Gracey, District 3, read the proclamation and emphasized the importance of addressing mental health openly and creating environments that nurture well-being, resilience, and inclusivity.
Leaders from Harmony CDC shared personal stories aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraging residents to seek support and services that are available for free. The ceremony included special remarks from city officials, esteemed community leaders, and a captivating poetry performance, all highlighting the importance of fostering a compassionate and supportive environment for all individuals.
Mark Porter, Director of Harmony CDC, expressed the importance of utilizing every available resource to cultivate a mentally healthy community. He emphasized the organization’s mission to foster a supportive and caring environment where the mental health of every individual is valued. Porter acknowledged the distress evident in the community, from instances of violence to challenges of poverty.
A study by CertaPet revealed significant barriers faced by uninsured individuals in accessing mental health treatment. Harmony CDC addresses this disparity by offering free counseling services, made possible through a generous grant from the City of Dallas. They also provide tele-appointments to ensure community members can access support from the comfort of their homes. For more information on the CertaPet study