Q1-2024- Partnership with Mars Home for Youth

MHY has served western Pennsylvania families since 1878 and provides in home therapy for children aged 9-17 who are demonstrating serious behavioral or mental health symptoms and are at risk of being removed from their homes. Additionally, MHY's Longmore Academy is a PA Department of Education licensed school for children grades 1-12 with behavioral and mental health disorders.

Longmore Academy serves ~120 students from nearby school districts and recently opened specialized autistic support classrooms to provide a welcoming and supportive educational environment to address the individual learning and sensory needs of students with autism.

Classrooms are designed to promote an environment with predictability and stability to enhance student skill acquisition and facilitate participation in activities based on the needs of students with autism. By providing an environment that increases engagement, they foster student independence in navigating the classroom routine and everyday activities.

We are thrilled to announce that Better Together Foundation was able to provide $1500 of financial support to purchase a swing and protective material for Longmore Academy's autistic support classroom

Board Members Taylor O'Brien, Morgan O'Brien, and Jay Bruce were able to visit with staff and students from MHY and Longmore Academy and present them with this generous gift.

In addition, our first corporate sponsor, Deep Well Services of Zelienople PA agreed to match our $1,500 donation to MHY!  MHY plans to use the additional funds to support the construction of Longmore Academy's new playground facility. The construction of this facility aligns directly with the mission of Better Together's Mental and Physical Health pillars. Huge thank you to Deep Well Services for their partnership and more to come on the progress of the playground construction.

To learn more about MHY visit their website at: https://mhyfamilyservices.org

See the below note from Longmore Academy's principal regarding our gift:

"Swinging is like a big hug for the children's senses through the gentle, soothing motion.  The swing will also help them get better at moving their bodies and staying balanced.  Plus, it's a fun way for them to play and make friends with their classmates.  When they're feeling overwhelmed or need a break, swinging can be a great way for them to take a breather and feel better during their school day.  Thank you for making a difference for our students!"