The inaugural Children’s Mental Health Awareness Walk hosted by Klaras Center for Families (KCF) will be held in Waco’s Brazos Park East Saturday, May 10, at 9 a.m.
The walk is part of National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Month activities. The event aims to reduce the stigma of mental and behavioral health challenges in children and youth, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing their mental well-being.
The walk is for children aged three to 21, teachers, caregivers, law enforcement, and other adults in the community. The event features prize giveaways, games, art projects, snacks, music and community resources provided by other local organizations.
KCF is operated by Heart of Texas Behavioral Health Network.
Tiffany Douglas, KCF Division Director, says, “At Klaras Center for Families, we believe that every child deserves the chance to thrive. By coming together for Children’s Mental Health Awareness, we’re not just raising awareness we’re building a community that cares, supports, and uplifts one another.” Douglas continues, “I encourage all community members to attend to help break the stigma associated with mental health, open the conversation, and give our children the mental health support they deserve.”
Ron Kimbell, HOTBHN Chief Strategy Officer, says, “We sometimes refer to this important day as Children’s Mental Health Acceptance Day to reflect the importance of transforming our awareness of children’s mental health issues into full acceptance.”
KCF encourages everyone to learn more about the signs and symptoms of common childhood mental health conditions, talk openly and honestly with children about their mental health, seek help from a qualified mental health professional if needed and become a champion for children’s mental health by sharing resources and advocating for support.
KCF provides behavioral health services to children and their families living within its six-county catchment areas. Services include, but are not limited to, case management, counseling, psychiatry, and skills training to include a variety of specialized populations. For more information on Klaras Center for Families’ services, visit hotbhn.org or call 254-752-7889.
