Mental Health Association of San Mateo County

Description

The organization known today as the Mental Health Association of San Mateo County was created over 60 years ago. The MHA began as a volunteer organization providing services to children, and has increased in scale and scope of services over the years since.

The Spring Street Shelter provides emergency shelter and support services for homeless adults with mental illness. Accommodations include separate men's and women's dormitories with a total of 15 beds. There is 24-hour staffing, two meals per day, laundry facilities, and a pay phone for personal use. Residents may stay on the premises during the day; however, the dormitories are closed between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The purpose of the program is to help adults with mental illness move from homelessness to stable, long-term housing with the support services appropriate to their needs.

The Friendship Center programs are community-based activities that provide recreation and socialization opportunities for adults with mental illness. The purpose of the program is to offer people the opportunity to participate in activities and events that give them a sense of belonging and, for many, an extended and caring family.