A kind conversation or a simple check-in might seem small – but these interactions can often be the first steps on the road to recovery. Valley Cities Behavioral Health Care knows that recovery often begins with connection and it’s why their outreach efforts across King County continue to grow.
“We believe in meeting people where they are and sometimes that’s not inside a clinic,” says Payton Standfill, Marketing Specialist, Valley Cities. “That might be at a community center, a park, or even on the street. One conversation can lead someone toward the help they need.”
For nearly 60 years, Valley Cities has offered compassionate care to individuals facing mental health challenges, substance use disorders, or housing instability. Their outreach teams, now active in both urban neighbourhoods and rural towns throughout King County, provide direct support to individuals who may otherwise fall through the cracks.
Valley Cities at a recent Kent resource fair. You’ll find Valley Cities at a variety of community events across King County this summer - stop by and say hello! Photo courtesy of Valley Cities.
During Mental Health Awareness Month this May, Valley Cities is placing even greater emphasis on visibility and access. Clinicians are stationed at community events across the region, ready to offer on-the-spot intakes and immediate pathways to care. “There’s no barrier too small to remove,” Standfill says. “Getting help should feel easy, human and stigma-free – that’s our goal at Valley Cities.”
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five adults in the U.S. experience mental illness each year – yet many never access the support they need. Valley Cities is working to change that statistic locally by bringing care directly into communities.
Donors play a crucial role in making this work possible. Through campaigns like GiveBIG, supporters help fund everything from mobile clinics and outreach programs to essential treatment services. “Our donors are the quiet force behind every life touched by Valley Cities,” Standfill says. “They help us show up – for everyone, everywhere.”
To learn more about Valley Cities and their services, call 253-833-7444 or visit valleycities.org. Follow them on Facebook for news and updates.
Help support Valley Cities:
Valley Cities Behavioral Health Care accepts one-time, monthly and legacy donations to help sustain and expand its services throughout King County. Learn how you can support Valley Cities at valleycities.org.
If you or someone you know is currently struggling with mental health and/or addiction, contact the Valley Cities team by phone at 253-833-7444 or in person at your local Valley Cities location. You can also call the 24 hour crisis line at 206-461-3222 or toll free at 866-427-4747.
