Changes at "Mental Health Support for Hunts Point Children"

What problem would you like to solve?

We intend to address adolescent behavioral challenges resulting from the pandemic that can become disruptive to the school environment.

Why is it important to solve? Why is it relevant for the community?

The historically under-resourced community has been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Our school partners have noted an “enormous amount of anxiety” and a significant uptick in self-harming behaviors and symptoms of depression among students.

What idea do you have to address the problem?

Increasing access to social workers who are competent in how to provide trauma-informed care, improve socioemotional outcomes for students, and develop a common language rooted in neuroscience for children to talk candidly about their mental health. 

Who would that help?

Giving students access to social workers who are competent in how to provide trauma-informed care, improve socioemotional outcomes for students, and develop a common language rooted in neuroscience for children to talk candidly about their mental health. 

What NYC borough would benefit from your idea?

Bronx