A plan to open a center for those experiencing mental health challenges and addiction next door to an established and well-attended day care center in Brewster had parents and the community fuming last week
Parents crowded into the Putnam County Bureau of Emergency Services auditorium in Carmel on Oct. 24 to strongly object to locating the Crisis Stabilization Center next to the Over the Rainbow Learning Center in the shopping center at 2505 Carmel Ave. It would be run by People USA, a peer-run mental health nonprofit that creates crisis centers and wellness services, and occupy a second-floor space.
Prior to the meeting, parents were alarmed to learn that a lease had already been signed by People USA with the landlord for the 24/7 center serving individuals from ages three to young adults who are experiencing trauma, acute mental health issues or substance abuse. No timeline for a final decision or when the crisis center would open was provided last week.
There are major gaps in services to help people in crisis situations throughout the county and state, said Mike Piazza, commissioner of the Putnam County Departments of Social Services & Mental Health.
Steve Miccio of People USA showed a video of how one center operates 24/7 similar to walk-ins at urgent care…
