$75,000 Granted to Eight Exceptional Mental Health Organizations

On Tuesday, June 4th, BBX Capital, in partnership with Broward Behavioral Health Coalition (BBHC), hosted a Mental Health Grant Presentation and Reception at The Main in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

The BBX Capital Foundation showed its support and provided $75,000 worth of grants to local organizations that provide services to children and adults with mental health or co-occurring diagnoses to promote their well-being and development.

The event began with networking and refreshments, followed by opening remarks from Lois Marino, Executive Director of the BBX Capital Foundation and Director of Community Engagement for BBX Capital. Lois introduced Silvia Quintana, CEO of Broward Behavioral Health Coalition, who emphasized the critical partnership between BBHC and BBX Capital Foundation in addressing our community’s mental health/wellness. Camila Mia Bencosme, Miss Fort Lauderdale Teen USA, shared her mental health journey and discussed her upcoming book – Growing Pains, about overcoming pain and trauma.

The eight non-profit organizations receiving grants from the BBX Capital Foundation included:
· Canine Assisted Therapy, which works with volunteers and their dogs to provide animal assisted therapy and companionship to people in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospice, and schools.
· NAMI Broward County, a nonprofit organization, dedicated to providing education, support, and advocacy to improve the quality of life for people with mental illness and their families through support, education, and advocacy.
· 211 Broward, the live, 24-hour comprehensive helpline, providing all people with crisis, health and human services support, and connecting them to resources in our community.
· Gilda's Club South Florida, which offers free programs for men, women, and children, as well as their families and friends who have been impacted by cancer.
· City House, whose programs are carefully designed to take a holistic approach in supporting single mothers and their children experiencing homelessness.
· Tomorrow’s Rainbow, which has the mission to nurture emotional wellness and resiliency for children, teens, and families experiencing grief, loss, or trauma.
· Pace Center for Girls, which provides free year-round middle school and high school academics, counseling, and life skills.
· Henderson Behavioral Health, which provides healthcare, housing, and hope for people of all ages with behavioral health conditions in Florida.