KALAMAZOO, Mich., July 25, 2023 — State Rep. Julie M. Rogers (D-Kalamazoo) will host a town hall event on Wednesday, Aug. 2, on the topic of behavioral health. The event, to be held at the Douglass Community Association, 1000 W. Paterson St. in Kalamazoo, will feature a panel discussion with special guest Jeff Patton, CEO of Integrated Services of Kalamazoo (ISK), and other experts. Doors to the Douglass Community Association will open at 5:30 p.m., and a panel discussion will take place from 6-7 p.m.
“The behavioral health needs of our community, from serious mental health disorders to addiction issues, are significant. I have heard from many members of our community that access to behavioral health services is a priority for them, and that we need to bring additional resources to address these issues,” Rogers said. “I am happy that the fiscal 2023-24 budget currently on the governor’s desk contains additional funding for behavioral health specialists throughout, whether it be in the area under Michigan Department of Health and Human Services or in Military and Veterans Affairs and State Police budgets.”
Representatives from Bronson Methodist Hospital and Ascension Borgess Hospital; Jeff Patton of ISK; officers from the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety; behavioral health professionals from the Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital and DHHS; and an addiction specialist will engage in a panel discussion on the challenges and opportunities to address behavioral health needs. In addition, questions from residents will be addressed by the panel following presentations and discussion on behavioral health supports in our region.
Before the discussion, attendees are invited to utilize the resources of the “Relaxation Station” bus, which include calming options such as massage therapy and light therapy from 4:45-6 p.m. The public is also invited to visit with vendors from a variety of health care providers and community organizations who will be available starting when doors open at 5:30 p.m.
For questions, please contact Rogers’ office at JulieRogers@house.mi.gov or at (517) 373-1783.