F.A.C.E.S. is a program of the statewide G.E.A.R. Parent Network, which for the past 20 years has used peer support and educational workshops to empower caretakers of children with behavioral health issues to build on collective strengths and advocate for their family’s needs. F.A.C.E.S. members receive training in leadership and advocacy.

“The month of May is dedicated to increasing public awareness about the triumphs and challenges in children’s mental health and the importance of family and youth involvement,” said Carol Tiernan, G.E.A.R. director. “When we focus on building resilience and social-emotional skills, no matter what a young person and their family is facing, we can help them recover and thrive.”

To focus attention this May on the supports and services that nurture resiliency and social-emotional skills, F.A.C.E.S. is distributing 200 toolkits of caregiver awareness, educational and support materials to mental health agencies statewide and 200 “Baby Wellness” kits to pediatricians and community-based organizations that serve new mothers.