WARREN, Pa– The Forest-Warren Mental Wellness Association (FWMWA) has been a beacon of hope and healing since its establishment in 2015. As an affiliate of the Journey Health System, this consumer-run, non-profit organization is dedicated to addressing mental health needs in Forest and Warren Counties, Pennsylvania. Through various supportive programs, FWMWA aims to aid individuals and families on their journey towards recovery while also working to reduce the stigma often associated with mental illness.

Currently, the team at FWMWA is seeking new referrals, community partners and consumers in the region. Through collaborative relationships with social service agencies, health professionals, hospitals, housing organizations and other community partners. FWMWA helps people living with serious mental illness move toward recovery.

Here’s a closer look at some of their key offerings:

·         The Friendship House Drop-In Center: Consumers from both the community and the Warren State Hospital enjoy socializing and activities at the Drop-In Center. This space is designed to promote recovery and facilitate reintegration into community life, providing a safe environment for peer interaction and support.

·         Representative Payee Program: FWMWA recognizes that managing finances can be overwhelming for many individuals. Their Representative Payee program offers financial management assistance to those needing help with their Social Security payments, ensuring they can focus more on their recovery.

·         Community-Based Care Management: This service supports self-determination by increasing access to essential community resources. From rental assistance to food support, FWMWA helps individuals connect with services that improve their overall well-being.

·         Recovery Assistance: Consumers who are also working through their own mental health recovery journeys make support feel more relatable and encouraging. They work part-time using three vans to help fellow peers with transportation, banking, shopping, community services and other essential needs. Transportation assistance may also help individuals attend critical medical, behavioral health and recovery appointments—an important step toward managing their own wellness.

·         Enhanced House Support: As a part of the Recovery Assistance program, enhanced house support focuses on improving skills and education about apartment/housing care for individuals who might be losing current housing due to a lack of upkeep. This helps them navigate their recovery journeys more effectively.

“Whether your organization is seeking dependable mental health services for a client or exploring a broader partner collaboration, we welcome the opportunity to connect,” states Jason Nuhfer, FWMWA Director. “Working together, local organizations can help people achieve greater stability, wellness and independence in the community.”

To make a referral or discuss partnership opportunities, call 814-584-1126 or visit www.fwmwa.org .