New London ― Child and Family Agency of Southeastern Connecticut, Inc. has announced a new partnership with the city to provide mental health services at the New London Public Library.

CFA provides behavioral health care, medical care, and educational resources to children, families, and individuals across southern and eastern Connecticut.

The organization will place a professional mental health consultant called a “community navigator” at the library. The person will work with library staff, patrons, and community organizations to offer weekly mental health resources to New London residents experiencing crisis.

The navigator will help people connect with support services, according to a release from CFA.

“This pilot initiative has the potential to help community residents better access needed services and supports – something sorely needed in our community,” said Allison Blake, CEO of CFA in the release. “The New London Department of Human Services saw this as a creative solution to the difficulty residents sometimes experience navigating social services.”

Blake said CFA hopes to be able to hire someone in the next few weeks.

Mayor Michael Passero applauded the new initiative since "our public library serves as a community gathering place for people across neighborhoods and we have seen an increase in patrons who are experiencing homelessness, substance use disorder and mental health issues. In partnership with CFA, the consultant will provide needed information, support, and referrals.”

Funding for the community navigator comes from the City of New London.

For more information, please contact Ellie Lambert at (860) 437-4550 x1406 or lamberte@childandfamilyagency.org.