Garrett’s Space Awarded $4 Million for Residential Center
We are delighted to share with you that our residential center is one of 15 community projects in Michigan’s 12th Congressional District to receive funding as part of the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Appropriations Package. The $4 million award, secured by Congresswoman Debbie Dingell and further supported by Senator Debbie Stabenow, is designated to create a holistically focused residential center for young adults struggling with depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation.
“This federal funding supports the organizations in our cities and towns who work every day to strengthen our communities and improve the lives of those who live and work here,” says Representative Dingell. “I’m proud to secure this investment for Garrett’s Space, which provides a much needed safe and therapeutic environment for young people struggling with mental health challenges.”
Nationwide, young adults are struggling. In a recent poll of the Harris Polling Group and Kumanu of 1700 adults ages 18-24, 70% reported being moderately or severely depressed. Suicide is the leading cause of death for youth and young adults in the State of Michigan.
The residential center will have a non-medical feel. Garrett’s Space plans to provide healing programming and activities, including support groups with peers, yoga, meditation and art to improve mental health, promote connections and resiliency, and reduce suicides among young adults. We believe a space like this, which will be immersed in nature, could have helped our son, Garrett, and we want to provide this important option to the many young adults who need it.
Garrett’s Space has a 76-acre property under contract in Superior Township, with a plan to close in the spring when the rezoning process is further along. The property includes a beautiful home that will be transitioned quickly for in-person programming and offices. When the property acquisition is complete, Garrett’s Space will build its residential center for short-term stays and further develop the grounds to support other holistic treatment options.
Since April 2021, we have provided professionally facilitated weekly support groups for young adults. Participants benefit from new connections, peer support, guided discussions, and movement and breathing exercises.
The funding is an important building block as Garrett's Space works to provide hope, healing and connections for young adults with mental health challenges. Moving forward, Garrett's Space will be seeking additional support for programming and the residential center from individuals, corporations and foundations.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Thanks so much to those of you who have contributed to our efforts. We are dedicated to our vision of creating a residential space and are eager for your continued support.
Consider launching a Facebook fundraiser for Garrett’s Space on your birthday.
If you’d like to volunteer, contact us at: scott@garrettsspace.org. You can make a donation with PayPal.
And please spread the word to anyone you know who might be interested in contributing to or assisting our organization. With your help, we can make inroads on this mental health crisis and help a significant number of young adults who are struggling.