Lakeview Center’s efforts to support homeless individuals with mental health issues received a boost through a $19,066 grant from United Way Emerald Coast for 2024.
- The funding will support the organization’s Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (PATH) team, which serves clients in Okaloosa and Walton Counties. The program provides mental health care and case management services by meeting clients where they are, addressing transportation barriers that often prevent access to care.
The grant will help provide temporary shelter in hotels and motels, assist with apartment down payments, and supply essential resources like bus passes, bedding and clothing needed for employment.
“Mental illness can be a barrier to employment and housing. Likewise, a lack of housing can exacerbate symptoms for those who already struggle with severe or persistent mental illness,” said Shawn Salamida, president of Lakeview Center.
Lakeview Center operates more than 60 programs across Northwest Florida’s Escambia to Walton counties, offering behavioral health care services. The PATH team connects individuals struggling with mental illness to appropriate care services.
Those seeking assistance, including self-referrals, can contact the PATH team at 850-307-8333. Additional information about Lakeview Center’s homeless assistance programs and donation opportunities is available at eLakeviewCenter.org.
