The Demakes Family YMCA is proud to announce it has received a $10,000 grant from the Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF) Community Response Fund to support Youth Mental Health Support Services for young people in Lynn.
This funding will help expand a comprehensive, community-centered approach to supporting youth—providing free preventative programming, access to behavioral health resources, and on-site clinical support. Services include a free drop-in Behavioral Health Clinic at the YMCA in partnership with Lynn Community Health Center, social-emotional learning and direct support from the YMCA’s Child & Family Social Worker, and YMCA membership “prescriptions” that connect youth to a safe, supportive space where they can build confidence, relationships, and healthy habits.
“At the Y, so much of this work starts with connection,” said Salynna Thoeun, Child & Family Social Worker at the YMCA of Metro North. “Sometimes it’s helping a young person learn how to manage stress, sometimes it’s just being a consistent, trusted adult in their day. These programs give kids the space to grow, feel supported, and know they belong.”
The grant provides flexible support that strengthens staffing and allows the YMCA to respond to the growing needs of youth and families in the Lynn community.
“We see firsthand how much young people need places where they can be themselves, and build positive relationships,” said Karina Teixeira, Executive Director of the Demakes Family YMCA. “This support from ECCF helps us show up in a bigger way for our teens and families. It’s about giving them opportunities to grow, stay connected, and feel supported every step of the way.”
The YMCA of Metro North remains committed to ensuring that all youth and families, regardless of their circumstances, have access to the resources, support, and community they need to thrive.
For more information about Youth Mental Health Support Services at the Demakes Family YMCA, visit: https://www.ymcametronorth.org/locations/lynn-ymca/