Contact: Steve McLean
Communications Director
(206) 302-2261
stephen.mclean@sound.health
SEATTLE – Sept. 24, 2012 – Sound Mental Health (SMH), one of the most comprehensive behavioral health services providers in King County, announced that it is assuming the operations of two housing properties for low income and disabled residents. Building Changes, a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing homelessness through advocacy, funding and public policy work, formally transferred management of Christopher Housing and Shirley Bridge Bungalows, both independent 501 3(c) organizations to SMH recently.
Building Changes, formerly AIDS Housing WA, has transformed itself from a housing services organization to a systems change liaison. As part of this strategic transition, Building Changes first engaged Sound Mental Health as its partner with Kenyon House, a Building Changes and Housing Resources Group property. In November 2008, SMH successfully assumed management of Kenyon House, which serves residents with multiple needs.
Given SMH’s successful track record in providing innovative and effective supportive housing programs in King County, Building Changes asked SMH to manage Christopher Housing (with properties in Kirkland, Renton and Kent) and the Shirley Bridge Bungalows located in West Seattle. Both these properties provide affordable housing to residents with multiple disabilities and needs.
“Sound Mental Health believes housing is a critical component in providing behavioral health services,” said SMH Chief Clinical Officer, Trish Blanchard. “Assuming the management of these two properties continues our commitment to providing housing and access to behavioral health services for people who need them.”
Linking Christopher House and the Shirley Bridge Bungalows with SMH will provide access to behavioral health services to residents in need of these services.
Sound Mental Health’s supportive housing program provides services to homeless youth, adults and military veterans throughout the King County area.
[bs_well size=”lg”]About Sound Mental Health
Sound Mental Health is a private, tax-exempt organization that has provided a comprehensive array of mental health and related services to the King County community since 1966. Our goal is to help individuals and families achieve the highest level of independence and (mental) health possible. Services are tailored to meet the unique needs of different age, disability and cultural/ethnic groups. To learn more, visit www.smh.org.
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