Mental health advocates are voicing their concerns because one of New Hampshire’s transitional housing facilities might soon be closed.The state budget calls for the sale of the Philbrook Adult Transitional Housing Facility in Concord, which advocates say plays a critical role in helping people get back on their feet.About 16 people live in the center as they work toward reintegrating themselves into the community after an involuntary admission to New Hampshire Hospital because of a mental health crisis.Advocates said many people living at Philbrook have ongoing mental health needs and, sometimes, legal issues. “This is an important stepping stone. As soon as people get their treatment at the state hospital, we’re that important next step,” said Dr. Luke Reynard, executive director of NFI North.Lawmakers said they don’t want the services to be cut, but they want the Department of Health and Human Services to develop a transition plan to vacate the facility. >> Download the free WMUR app to get updates on the go: Apple | Google Play <> Subscribe to WMUR’s YouTube channel <<
Mental health advocates are voicing their concerns because one of New Hampshire’s transitional housing facilities might soon be closed.
The state budget calls for the sale of the Philbrook Adult Transitional Housing Facility in Concord, which advocates say plays a critical role in helping people get back on their feet.
About 16 people live in the center as they work toward reintegrating themselves into the community after an involuntary admission to New Hampshire Hospital because of a mental health crisis.
Advocates said many people living at Philbrook have ongoing mental health needs and, sometimes, legal issues.
“This is an important stepping stone. As soon as people get their treatment at the state hospital, we’re that important next step,” said Dr. Luke Reynard, executive director of NFI North.
Lawmakers said they don’t want the services to be cut, but they want the Department of Health and Human Services to develop a transition plan to vacate the facility.
>> Download the free WMUR app to get updates on the go: Apple | Google Play <<
NFI North, which runs the Pathways program in Philbrook, said that even with a plan, the closure is still going to be messy and expensive.
“We are very appreciative of their support. However, it is disruptive,” Reynard said. “The benefit of some of the legislation is that the 16 people who live here do have funding attached to that, so our charge over the next two years is to find a suitable location for those people to transition to.”
Gov. Kelly Ayotte’s office released a statement saying that the goal is for a smooth transition.
“DHHS is working to ensure a successful transition out of the Philbrook Center … and that no individual loses housing in the process,” Ayotte’s office said. “Governor Ayotte will continue to work every day to ensure that we protect our most vulnerable.”
Susan Stearns, executive director of NAMI New Hampshire, said support is critical to ensure the state does not see backups in emergency rooms with nowhere for people to go.
“And then people don’t get the care they need when they need it. So the reality is, any one of us could be that person,” Stearns said.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental health, you can call 988 for help.
>> Subscribe to WMUR’s YouTube channel <<
link