“I suffer from anxiety and depression and I am a first-generation college student from a family of minimal means. Decisions about what to study and what college to go to are big decisions with great expenses, all-the-while not knowing all of the hidden costs, just learning about them along the way. I researched on-line for some kind of assistance for people like me, and I found Step Up For Mental Health®. From my first phone call with [my Peer Support Facilitator], she helped me and she was so supportive. She made me realize that there are many people who faced the same challenges and they succeeded – and I can too. She made me feel a sense of support and understanding. She explained things to me and asked what kind of help I needed. I told her that I have a list of school supplies that I need, but didn’t have the funds to go buy them. She said she would do her best to help me, and she did. Within a couple of weeks, she reached out to me to let me know that she had a box full of the school supplies that I needed AND a gift card to Aldi to help me and my family out! This help was such a welcome surprise. With the COVID-19 situation, we masked up and met in a convenient (for both of us) parking lot of a shopping center and she gave me all the supplies I was in need of – AND an Aldi gift card! This was so helpful to me and will help me succeed! and I hope that other students and people in need suffering from mental health issues, find this organization and will reach out to them – AMAZING!”

“As a self-employed single mother, financial stress and worry had only exasperated my struggle with depression and anxiety. Step Up For Mental Health® has been a Godsend! I can’t say or thank this incredible organization enough for how it has blessed and enriched the lives of me and my daughter during one of the toughest times in my life. The financial assistance happened immediately, not only stabilizing some of our financial troubles, but it also allowed me to focus on self-care and mindfully managing my mental and emotional well being. Step Up For Mental Health® also provided valuable resources and access to online classes that will help me update my technical skills, to get us back on the long-term track of financial independence. Thank God for Step Up For Mental Health®!”

“Thank you so much for the assistance [Step Up For Mental Health®] provided my family with uniforms and school supplies. This assistance provided my family with much-needed help in my time of need. I was in a position that could not afford clothes or supplies for my children due to a lack of income. This assistance helps eliminate the having to choose between paying my rent or paying for their clothes. It is hard finding programs that help low middle-class families. I am grateful for this assistance because it puts my mind at ease. I would surely refer this organization to other low middle-class families.”