Young & Healthy has partnered with The Center for Connection to offer free mental health support specifically targeting children ages 2-12 who were affected by the devastating Eaton Fire.
The collaboration, funded by a generous donation from Direct Relief, aims to address the mounting emotional needs of low-income families as they approach the critical six-month mark following the disaster.
“This partnership is about healing hearts and restoring hope,” said Liz Arnold, Co-Executive Director (Interim) of Young & Healthy.
“If your child is struggling in the aftermath of the fire, they need compassionate support. These therapy sessions can help families rebuild emotional resilience, reconnect, and move forward together.”
The program provides play-based family therapy sessions at no cost to enrolled families.
Children can express their feelings, manage stress, and begin healing in a safe, supportive environment through this gentle, engaging therapeutic approach. Families affected by the Eaton Fire can schedule sessions by contacting Lilia Sandoval at Young & Healthy at (626) 795-5166 in English or Spanish.
“Studies show that mental health needs often increase six months after a disaster,” said Staci Richard, California Emergency Response Manager for Direct Relief. “As we approach that point following LA’s wildfires, Direct Relief is honored to support Young & Healthy’s partnership with The Center for Connection to offer play-based therapy for children and provide caregivers with the tools they need to support their children. This funding helps ensure both immediate and long-term emotional support, which is crucial for recovery.”
Nonpriifit Young & Healthy has served low-income, greater Pasadena children for over three decades, ensuring access to quality healthcare often unattainable due to unavailability or inadequacy of insurance. The organization maintains a network of over 350 physicians, dentists, and mental healthcare professionals who volunteer their services, while also providing insurance enrollment, tax preparation assistance, and trauma-responsiveness trainings.
The Center for Connection, founded by Tina Payne Bryson, co-author of The Whole-Brain Child, provides comprehensive mental health services including psychotherapy, assessments, occupational therapy, educational support, play therapy, and parenting resources, all aimed at fostering well-being and resilience across the lifespan.
Direct Relief, the humanitarian organization funding this initiative, delivers lifesaving medical resources throughout the U.S. and globally to communities in need without regard to politics, religion, or ability to pay.
For more information: Young & Healthy (www.yhpasadena.org), The Center for Connection (https://www.