This week, the Los Angeles County Board oof Supervisors unanimously approved a motion co-authored by Supervisor Holly J Mitchell with Supervisor Janice Hahn to invest a total of $4.5 million – $1.5 million over the next three years – to existing allcove centers in Los Angeles County and to identify ways to expand similar models throughout the County.
According to the County, allcove is a nationally recognized “one-stop shop” where young people get help with mental health, substance use, family support, and just navigating life. It’s all done in a welcoming, stigma-free space designed by and for young people.
Mitchell stated “I’ve seen firsthand how much this model makes a difference in our communities at the allcove Beach Cities in Redondo Beach…No one wants to be in a sterile, clinical setting when you feel you are at your most vulnerable. That [non-stigmatizing] approach has worked at Beach Cities, and we are [looking to support expanding this approach.]”
Prioritizing mental health early can prevent a problem from becoming an obstruction. “These upstream efforts, and the youth who lead them, are worthy of our investment and attention.”
The center offers support for both mental and physical health, as well as family support, substance use, sexual health, education and employment counseling and peer support.
Judith Martin-Straw
