November 27, 2018 - Reliance Health provides support to over 1,000 individuals each year while leading the way in mental health education and advocacy. We are building a foundation of healthy emotional and mental well-being throughout Eastern Connecticut. With that well-being comes a stronger, healthier, more engaged community.

This past year was full of opportunities for Reliance Health. We were recognized as the Best Nonprofit through The Bulletin’s Reader’s Choice awards. We moved into our new office space on Cliff Street in Norwich, The Morosky Building. We hosted several community education events, such as Ask an Expert and the Stonewall Speakers. We built a teaching kitchen, held a Wellness Retreat, and expanded our Clinical Service offerings to include auricular acupuncture. We collaborated with the 24-hour 2-1-1 helpline, to connect to immediate support those struggling with opioid and other substance abuse issues. We’re also piloting a program in the Norwich and New London courts to divert people to mental health and substance abuse supports before prosecution in the criminal justice system.

Despite these positive developments we faced significant challenges. Our state funding was cut by 5% and we fought to correctly identify our properties as tax exempt. After pursuing legal action, we did regain our property tax exemption, but the battle for funding continues. Our two new programs, mentioned above, have yet to secure the funds needed to continue long-term.

Overdose deaths in Norwich rose from 10 in 2012 to 33 in 2017. There is a need to address this opioid epidemic. A need for education about mental health. A need for advocacy. A need for supportive services for those living with mental health barriers. The needs of the community are real. Reliance Health creatively and efficiently evolves to address these needs in an affordable way. We will continue to do our part, but we can’t do it without you.

Your support provides people with meals, transportation, education, and life experiences. Your support helps to develop skills which promote independence and confidence. Your support ensures that individuals are connected to their community. Your support makes a difference. Be part of the solution toward making your community happier and healthier.

This Giving Tuesday, please consider donating to Reliance Health.