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Steps to Wellness Success

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­­­­Meridian is excited to share that with the help of our supporters and community we raised $51,140, Thursday September 7th at the Second Annual Steps to Wellness Luncheon. This event launched a $750,000 fundraising campaign to expand the residential accommodations within the Mother’s Intensive Supportive Treatment Program (MIST). MIST Expansion Project from Meridian Behavioral Healthcare on Vimeo. MIST is currently a 10-bed, multi-faceted treatment program for substance-using pregnant and postpartum women housed at the Sid Martin Bridge House, located on Meridian’s Gainesville campus. In the MIST program, infants stay with the mother, allowing for crucial bonding that takes place in the early months of development; while also allowing the mother to receive treatment and remain drug-free during nursing. Women admitted to the program remain in the residential component of the program for 6-12 months; then transition into an intensive 5-day–per week outpatient program. “After hearing the heartbreaking screams of both mother and child as I experienced for the first time a child being taken from their mother, I knew there had to be something we could do differently,” said Richard Anderson, Senior Vice President, and Chief Clinical Officer. “Developing the MIST program was our solution.” As the program continues to grow, the need for expansion grows as well. In order to complete this expansion and accommodate this need, Meridian launched a $750,000 Capital Campaign. Meridian raised $26,140 in donations sponsorships, pledges and proceeds from the event’s art auction. In addition to the $26,140, Meridian also received a gracious gift of $25,000 from an event attendee. “We are so grateful for the gracious giving of our community,” said Laurie Michaelson, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Communications and Advancement. “It is the support of these selfless individuals that will make this campaign a success.” The Steps to Wellness luncheon featured a breakfast-for-lunch themed menu; as well as a live art auction and a short presentation by mother/daughter Meridian clients, Virginia and Lacorya Lynn. More information about the MIST program can be found here: mbhci.org/mist To donate to this campaign online click here: http://bit.ly/2gPVdU4
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