St. Augustine Youth Services (SAYS), a leading nonprofit agency dedicated to supporting the mental and behavioral health needs of youth in Northeast Florida, has announced a new partnership with the Community First Cares Foundation, the 501(c)3 nonprofit foundation of Community First Credit Union.
The partnership will help provide care for the critical mental health needs of youth in St. Johns County, signaling a proactive approach to tackling pressing challenges beyond a one-time financial gift.
With St. Johns County experiencing exponential population growth, the demand for mental health services has reached alarming levels and will only grow in the future. Suicide rates, hospitalizations and other mental health struggles have become a local and national epidemic. As Community First expands its footprint in St. Johns County, it is taking an active role in providing essential community mental health support for local youth.
“Corporate partnerships like those between SAYS and companies like Community First, Bozard Ford, MasterCraft Builder Group and others allow SAYS leadership to proactively respond to the evolving needs of our agency and the community,” says Schuyler Siefker, executive director of St. Augustine Youth Services. “This partnership is about joining forces with Community First to make a tangible, measurable difference in the lives of vulnerable youth.”
Through this partnership, Community First Cares is actively supporting SAYS in providing vital community-based support and services tailored to address the mental health crisis gripping local youth. From crisis intervention, counseling and therapy sessions to peer support and family advocacy, the combined efforts of St. Augustine Youth Services and Community First Cares will empower young individuals and their caregivers to navigate their mental health challenges and build a brighter future.
“Community First Cares is deeply committed to the wellbeing of our community, especially the youngest and most vulnerable among us,” said Missy Peters, executive director of the Community First Cares Foundation. “By joining forces with St. Augustine Youth Services, we aim to create a ripple effect of positive change, offering hope and support to those who need it most within our growing community.”
