Pinellas Park proclaims May 2024 Mental Health Awareness Month, highlights local resources

Mayor Sandra Lee Bradbery read and signed a proclamation at the Pinellas Park City Council meeting on May 9, declaring May 2024 as Mental Health Awareness Month. The proclamation called on residents to increase awareness, reduce stigma and improve access to services for people with mental illness.

The proclamation, delivered in council chambers and presented to LaRon from the city's human resources office, emphasized the link between good mental health and community well‑being and urged support for both employees and residents. "Good mental health is critical to the well‑being of our families, our communities, our schools and our businesses," the proclamation states.

LaRon, representing the city's HR office, told the council the recognition matters to staff and said the city is promoting several initiatives and resources for employees and the public. LaRon noted planned activities for the month and invited residents to a community walk on May 19 that will include a "paint the city green" theme to increase visibility for mental‑health awareness.

Vice Mayor and other council members thanked presenters and highlighted additional partner events, including a NAMI‑hosted walk in the weeks ahead. The council did not take any formal policy action on mental‑health programming at the meeting; the proclamation is a ceremonial recognition and a public reminder of resources and upcoming events.

The meeting packet lists no immediate budgetary commitments tied to the proclamation. For event details, the council directed residents to the city’s announcements and partner organizations.