New Video Features Candid Conversations with New Yorkers About Mental Health, Substance Use, and Housing Insecurity
(New York, N.Y.)—The Institute for Community Living (ICL), a nonprofit organization that provides New Yorkers with behavioral health challenges with comprehensive housing, health care, and recovery services to support them in living healthy and fulfilling lives, announced the launch of a new anti-stigma video “Coffee On Us.” Dedicated to fostering understanding around some of the greatest challenges New Yorkers face, “Coffee On Us” works to eliminate stigma surrounding mental health, substance use, and housing insecurity by engaging New Yorkers in an open dialogue.
Three ICL program participants—Christine, Ray, and Shawn—gathered at a bustling Manhattan coffee shop, each seated beneath a sign boldly proclaiming their personal challenges, inviting passersby with the simple prompt, “Ask Me Anything.” Christine’s sign indicated her struggle with depression, Ray’s with PTSD, and Shawn’s with addiction.
As seen in the video, patrons of Maman in Hudson Square approached ICL’s program participants with curiosity. Meaningful dialogues unfolded, delving into their lived experiences, their resilience and achievements, and the vital support provided by ICL.
Coinciding with Mental Health Awareness Month, the release of “Coffee On Us” aims to raise awareness, foster dialogue, and dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health challenges.
“Having an open conversation with someone in your community and deepening our understanding of one another goes a long way in addressing the stigma surrounding the most significant challenges we all face,” said Jody Rudin, President and CEO of ICL. “At ICL, our mission goes beyond simply providing services to individuals who face these challenges. We’re working to start conversations, shift perceptions, and equip our community with tools of empathy and understanding. ‘Coffee On Us’ demonstrates our commitment to facilitating these conversations in creative and innovative ways.”
