Wayne County adopts Mental Health Awareness Month proclamation, highlights rural Crisis Stabilization Center

Wayne County commissioners on May 14 adopted a Mental Health Awareness Month proclamation after hearing from representatives of the Center for Community Resources about local mental health services.

Patty Kilgore and other Center for Community Resources staff told the board the agency has seen a 280% increase in clients since opening in July 2021 and serves people ranging in age from 4 to 95. Kilgore said the county’s Crisis Stabilization Center is the only rural crisis center in Pennsylvania and credited outreach efforts for helping reduce stigma and speed access to care.

Commissioner Brian W. Smith praised the System of Care and said the Crisis Stabilization Center offers a more appropriate setting than an emergency room for people in mental-health crisis. Commissioner Jocelyn Cramer noted the upgrade to a 24/7 Crisis Stabilization Center was made possible by grant funding and urged community members to visit the facility and advocate for its services. Commissioner James Shook credited former county CFO Vicky Botjer for years of work on the project.

The board adopted the proclamation by unanimous motion. System of Care Coordinator Dave Hartung announced related community events, including a free Self-Care Day on May 22, 2026 at the Park Street Complex and a NAMI 5K on May 23, 2026 to raise awareness and reduce stigma.

The proclamation does not change county policy or funding levels; commissioners characterized it as recognition of local providers and outreach efforts and as encouragement for further community engagement.