Niagara County announces 'Community Messages of Hope' campaign as part of Mental Health Awareness Month

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Niagara County Legislature Chairwoman Rebecca Wydysh announced the launch of the next phase of the Niagara County Opioid (OASIS) Task Force’s “Community Messages of Hope.” The campaign, which began in August 2021 at the Niagara County Fair, asked residents to submit an encouraging message to unknown individuals who may be facing challenging times with mental health or substance use concerns.

“This campaign brings together our community to send inspirational messages of hope,” said Laura Kelemen, NCDMH director of community services. “It is evident that there are residents across the age spectrum who support individuals who may be struggling, cheering for them to find their path to wellness.”

“Hope speaks to different people in different ways. It is our intention that the more ways we show our neighbors who may be struggling that they matter, they are valued, and they are believed in, the more likely each of them will hear their message of hope and never give up on recovery,” said Myrla Gibbons Doxey, NCDMH deputy director and co-chair of the Niagara County Opioid Task Force public awareness subcommittee.

Subcommittee Co-Chair and former Niagara County Legislator Owen Steed said, “With hope, all things are possible. You’ve got this!”

The “Community Messages of Hope” campaign video can be viewed on the NCDMH Facebook page or by visiting https://video214.com/play/AGfopBxA6i75zMXzaft7NA/s/dark.

The Niagara County Crisis Services 24-hour phone line offers free, confidential support, guidance, information, referral and interventions as needed. Call 716-285-3515.

“There is Help – There is Hope. Recovery is Possible.”