Fishers Mental Health Inter-Faith Committee Launches Fishers Cares, a Network of Support for Mental

The Fishers Mental Health Initiative inter-faith committee announced today a new program to benefit those who seek help in their mental health journey. Fishers Cares is a collaborative program that spans several inter-faith places of worship and businesses across the community intended to provide a safe space for individuals to meet with an evidence-based trained individual to receive support and referrals for stress, anxiety, or other mental illness.

The pilot program, launched last week, hopes to expand to include additional congregations, not-for-profits, and businesses in the future. Current pilot participants include:

• Fishers YMCA
• Grace Church - Fishers
• Leavener Ministries at Pinheads Bowling Center and Sunrise Cafe
• Northview Church - Fishers
• Saint Louis de Montfort Church
• St. George Orthodox Church

"Fishers Cares is a demonstration of the compassion and energy of the community to support those impacted by mental illness," said Fishers City Councilman Todd Zimmerman. "Bringing together a diverse group of faith leaders to combat stigma and provide a real solution that makes a statement to every person in Fishers: 'It's ok to not be ok and we're here to stand with you.'"

The inter-faith committee has met since 2016 to discuss the role of faith in the City's efforts to change systems in place that prevent a strong systems of care network as well as to combat the stigma associated with mental illness. Nearly 40 different congregations and organizations have been represented in the committee which hosted an inter-faith prayer gathering in 2017 to address mental illness in Fishers.

"Many faith congregations in Fishers have engaged in mental health programming individually, but we wanted to work together to make a difference for our community and provide practical support for someone who is seeking help in their mental health journey," shared Kevin Roth, Pastor of Grace Church Fishers. "Fishers Cares is a simple starting point for those seeking help. There is no cost. Simply go online and schedule an appointment to begin the conversation."

The confidential support program is administered independently from the City and no personal information is shared outside of the Fishers Cares partner organization. Individuals interested in learning more about faith-based mental health resources like Fishers Cares or make an appointment can visit stigmafreeFishers.com/Faith.