Coalition Proclamation (in progress)

RESOLUTION NO. ______ (Presentation in progress by Supervisor Mark Stone)

RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING "MENTALLY HEALTHY COMMUNITY" DAYS AND SUPPORT FOR THE MENTAL HEALTH MONOLOGUES AND SUMMIT 3 ON NOVEMBER 4-5, 2004

WHEREAS, the current Mental Health System in the U.S. is undergoing a major transformation, which requires the voice of the people; and, WHEREAS, the State of California is facing significant budget deficits, raising doubts as to the government’s ability to meet mental health care needs; and, WHEREAS, Santa Cruz County’s Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services is facing reductions in programs and services; and, WHEREAS, approximately 1 in 5 adults - experience a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year, which translates to an annual 54 million Americans with a mental disorder, yet fewer than 8 million seek treatment; and, WHEREAS, Suicide is one of the top 10 leading causes of death in the U.S., and Santa Cruz County has one of the highest suicide rates in California; and, WHEREAS, Santa Cruz County would benefit from an integrated Mental Health Care System, including suicide prevention services, which is the product of efficient and effective interagency, community, and consumer collaborations; and, WHEREAS, the Santa Cruz County Coalition on Mental Health is using a strengths-based approach to develop interagency and community engagement and collaboration for the planning, development, and delivery of creative solutions and resources to meet mental health care needs and prevent suicide in our community. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that November 4-5, 2004, are hereby proclaimed as " Mentally Healthy Community" Days in Santa Cruz County; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors supports and encourages community participation in the Mental Health Monologues, Summit 3, and strategic plan implementation to create a mentally healthy community and end suicide in Santa Cruz County. PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Board of Supervisors of the County of Santa Cruz, State of California, on this ______________________________________________.