Family Preventing Early Adverse Childhood Experiences (Family PEACE) supports the mental health of very young children and their families after traumatic experiences such as violence and abuse. The goal is to end intergenerational cycles of violence. Services are available for children up to age 5, their caregivers, and siblings ages 6-12 who may have also been impacted by family trauma. The program creates a safe, empowered community for individuals and families to feel seen, heard, and valued through self-awareness, cultural attunement, and spiritual sensitivity.
3,806
mental health contacts delivered via telehealth, phone, or in person to 216 unique clients
One Family PEACE client had experienced difficulty with employment. After connecting with our services, she opened her own daycare center and engaged in an English as a Second Language course. Another patient who had experienced intimate partner violence and utilized substance as a coping mechanism has successfully entered and completed a rehabilitation program.
A 26-year-old nursing student was persuaded by a friend to try a substance that landed her in the emergency department. The Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP) Unit referred the patient to an SUD peer navigator, who assessed the patient’s needs and connected her with services. She subsequently had another psychiatric encounter and, upon arrival back at CPEP, requested the navigator she had seen before. The navigator shared his experiences with substance use and how he overcame them to stay healthy. He linked the patient to services to address her mental health, substance use, and other challenges, and the patient stayed in touch with him for support and resources. She actively participates in her treatment and is managing her mental health well with medications and regular psychotherapy. Happily, she achieved her dream of becoming a nurse, passed her R.N. license exam, and now works in a New York City hospital. She has expressed her gratitude to her peer navigator and acknowledged his support in her recovery.
In 2022, one student was identified by his teachers as being at risk. He wasn’t completing his homework, wouldn’t pay attention, and was disrespectful in class. When the baseball league started in March, his two teachers were hesitant to allow him to play, but decided it would be best for him to be on the team. Once the baseball season began, his behavior and academics improved drastically. He demonstrated leadership in the classroom, completed his homework, and was motivated to stay on top of his work so he could play in each game. At the start of the season, students create goal cards. Each week, we check in with teachers to discuss each student’s goals, progress, and barriers to determine if they can play. The league motivates students to work toward their goals, provides a healthy way to cope with stressors, and helps launch students on a path to success.