Family Houston Honored for Advancing Minority Mental Health During National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
In recognition of their exceptional work in the mental health sector, Family Houston has been honored with the American Psychiatric Association Foundation’s 2024 Award for Advancing Minority Mental Health.
This accolade is poignant as July marks National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the unique mental health challenges faced by minority communities and promoting equitable access to mental health services. Among adults who report fair or poor mental health, White adults (50%) are more likely to say they received mental health services in the past three years compared with Black (39%) and Hispanic adults (36%), according to the 2023 KFF Racism, Discrimination and Health Survey.
The American Psychiatric Association Foundation’s Awards for Advancing Minority Mental Health, established in 2003, honor community organizations for raising awareness and improving mental health care in underserved minority communities.
During a recent visit, Rawle Andrews, Jr. Esq., the American Psychiatric Association Foundation Executive Director, presented the award to Ken Sheirr, Family Houston’s President & CEO. The award acknowledges Family Houston’s significant contributions to raising awareness and improving the quality of mental health care in underserved minority communities.
Andrews Jr. said, “Family Houston exemplifies the commitment and dedication needed to address the unique mental health challenges faced by minority communities. Their innovative programs and unwavering support have made a tangible difference in the lives of many, and it is an honor to recognize their impactful work with this award.”
Ken Sheirr, President & CEO of Family Houston, reflecting on what the award means to the organization, says, “We are deeply honored to receive this award from the American Psychiatric Association Foundation. At Family Houston, we strive to provide accessible, high-quality mental health services to all, especially those in underserved communities. This recognition inspires us to continue our mission and further our efforts in advancing mental health care for minorities.”
Family Houston, a cornerstone of the Houston community for over a century, provides a wide range of services, including mental health counseling, financial stability programs, and family support. Through its innovative programs and steadfast assistance, Family Houston’s commitment to inclusivity and excellence in mental health, especially to those in underserved communities, has earned esteemed recognition and instilled confidence in its services from the community.
By staying informed, you can actively engage in the conversation about minority mental health and contribute to the ongoing efforts to improve mental health care for all. We encourage you to visit www.familyhouston.org and www.apafdn.org to learn more about Family Houston and APAF’s impactful work.
