Social Work Month Celebrated on Henry Street
By Nicole Fogarty
Representatives from a consortium of Lower East Side settlement houses and agencies gathered at Henry Street on Wednesday to celebrate Social Work Month and explore Thrive NYC: A Roadmap for Mental Health for All.
Social workers and other representatives from United Neighborhood Houses, Henry Street Settlement, Grand Street Settlement, Educational Alliance, University Settlement/The Door, and the Chinese-American Planning Council filled the room at Henry Street’s youth center, warmly welcoming the all speakers on the agenda.
The morning began with remarks from Diane Rubin, Chief Program Officer at Henry Street Settlement, and Settlement Executive Director David Garza. Said Rubin of the event, “Today’s Social Work Month breakfast is our way to show our appreciation and celebrate the social workers who are devoted to serving our Lower East Side communities throughout the year.”
Featured guest speaker was Executive Deputy Commissioner for Mental Hygiene at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Dr. Gary Belkin who explained Thrive NYC, the city’s new comprehensive mental health plan and roadmap. Belkin emphasized the importance of working together to reform mental health care, and applauded those present for doing just that.
Susan Stamler, Executive Director of United Neighborhood Houses, closed out the event, noting that settlement houses and the many social workers and staff members that fill them “continue to be the backbones of their communities today,” applauding them for staying relevant over the years.
Thrive NYC, unveiled in November by NYC First Lady Chirlane McCray, aims to overhaul the city’s mental health care system by changing the culture surrounding mental health as well as launching initiatives to increase access to care for all New Yorkers.
