Phone-Free Schools, Connected Learning: What Pennsylvania’s New Bell-to-Bell Cell Phone Legislation Means for Students As Pennsylvania moves toward implementing a statewide bell-to-bell cell phone policy
Día de los Muertos and the Power of Remembering What This Beautiful Tradition Can Teach Us About Grief, Mental Wellness, and Hope Every culture
Meet Eman: Connecting Technology, Persistence, and Youth Mental Wellness At Touchstone Foundation, our interns bring diverse skills, experiences, and perspectives that strengthen our work
Welcome Calle Lamarche: Connecting Public Health, Youth Mental Wellness, and Community Impact At Touchstone Foundation, our interns bring fresh perspectives, skills, and experiences that strengthen
Touchstone Foundation’s 3rd Annual Symposium Builds Pathways into Lancaster County’s Mental Health Workforce and FREE CEU Sessions Peer-to-peer event connects students, emerging professionals and experienced
More Than Crisis Prevention: Creating Spaces Where LGBTQ+ Youth Can Belong Content note: This blog discusses suicide, suicidal thoughts, discrimination, and mental health. Talking about
This fall, Touchstone Foundation will say farewell to our Programs Manager, Madeline Mitchell, as she prepares to begin a new chapter in her career. Madeline
Culture, Connection, and Care: Supporting Mental Wellness in Hispanic and Latino Communities Mental wellness does not happen in isolation. It is shaped by our families,
You Don’t Have to Figure It All Out Alone: Meet the Rise Above Collective Facilitators Being 18 to 26 can feel like having the whole
Meet Jasper Vedral: Bringing Creativity and Storytelling to Touchstone Foundation At Touchstone Foundation, our interns bring new perspectives, talents, and experiences that strengthen how we
Meet Jeanette Bernard: Building a Career in Advocacy and Youth Mental Wellness At Touchstone Foundation, our interns bring diverse educational backgrounds, professional experiences, and perspectives
Meet Caitlyn George: Listening, Advocacy, and Supporting Youth Mental Wellness Meet Caitlyn George: Listening, Advocacy, and Supporting Youth Mental Wellness At Touchstone Foundation, our interns
Meet Lyndsey: Connecting Mental Health, Education, and Youth Advocacy Meet Lyndsey: Connecting Mental Health, Education, and Youth Advocacy At Touchstone Foundation, our Programs Assistants bring
Behind Every Number Is a Young Person Hoping Someone Notices: Insight to 2025 Pennsylvania Youth Survey (PAYS) What if an empty desk told a bigger
Touchstone Foundation Expands Rise Above Program to Lancaster County Schools Through New Grant Funding The impact of Rise Above and Touchstone Foundation’s youth mental wellness
2026 Pennsylvania Community and Public Health Conference What Pennsylvania Families Need to Know About Support Through Healthcare Changes Touchstone Foundation’s Executive Director, Anna Kennedy was
Understanding Trauma Healing: Therapy Approaches & Support Before exploring the many approaches to trauma healing, it’s important to remember that recovery is deeply personal,
At Touchstone Foundation, our work is shaped by the voices and experiences of those who help bring our mission to life. Throughout her internship, Reese
Reimagining “Rise Above”: A Day of Creativity, Collaboration, and Purpose On Saturday, March 7th, something powerful happened at PCA&D. What started as a rebranding exercise
Communications Intern Spotlight: Welcoming Reese Rainar We’re excited to welcome Reese Rainar to the Touchstone Foundation team! Reese brings a strong interest in communications, storytelling,
Programs Manager Spotlight: Welcoming Yakahiris Vazquez **Previously serving as our Programs Assistant, Yakahiris has played an important role in supporting our programs, connecting with young
Programs Intern Spotlight: Welcoming Leiahna Garcia We’re excited to welcome Leiahna Garcia our Programs Intern to the Touchstone Foundation team! As Leiahna enters her final
Touchstone Foundation Parenting Series: A Parent’s Guide to Raising Resilient Youth Featuring Dr. Thomas Foley This NEW Touchstone Foundation Parenting Series is a FREE, parent-focused
With a clear mission and growing impact, Touchstone Foundation is embarking on strategic planning to deepen access, expand the mental health talent pipeline, and ensure
In times when the world feels heavy and the news is hard to process, it’s important to remember that you are not alone—and neither are
Welcoming New Leadership: Touchstone Foundation Announces New Board Members and Honors Outgoing Leaders At Touchstone Foundation, our strength lies in the people who guide our
Touchstone Foundation Joins Statewide Leaders to Advance Mental Health Access at the Pennsylvania Health Funders Collaborative Conference Executive Director Anna Kennedy and Programs Manager
Finding Hope in Light and Shadow: Reflections from the Hope Noted Summit Interview by: Anna Kennedy As we reflect on September/Suicide Prevention Awareness Month—we took
Reflecting on Suicide Prevention Awareness Month: Continuing the Conversation Each September, Suicide Prevention Awareness Month calls us to pause, reflect, and recommit to the work
Welcome Vivienne Freudman (she/her), Programs Assistant, creating inclusive spaces and supporting the diverse needs of the Lancaster community. We’re excited to welcome Vivienne Freudman as
Welcome Kaz McCarthy, MSW Candidate to Touchstone Foundation! We’re excited to welcome Kaz McCarthy to the Touchstone Foundation team! Currently pursuing a Master of Social
Welcome Abby Swank to the Touchstone Foundation Team! We’re thrilled to welcome Abby Swank as our new Operations Manager and Accountant at Touchstone Foundation! Abby
ACEs and PCEs: How Positive Childhood Experiences Enhance Wellbeing What Are ACEs (and Why Do They Matter)? You may have come across the term
At the Touchstone Foundation, advocacy is one of our core values. Now more than ever, our advocacy work is integral to our mission of increasing
Welcome, Kelsie: A Passionate Advocate and Creator of Meaningful Moments We’re excited to introduce Kelsie Choate, our summer Programs Intern at Touchstone Foundation! Currently pursuing
Welcome Lindsay Ditlow: Touchstone Foundation’s New Programs Assistant! We’re thrilled to officially welcome Lindsay Ditlow to the Touchstone Foundation team in her new role as
ADHD and Bipolar Disorder: Strategies to Focus, Cope, and Thrive with Co-occurring Conditions “My mom would tell me to write everything down. It didn’t
Breaking the Cycle: Addressing ACEs, Trauma, and Youth Mental Wellness in Lancaster County Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can significantly influence a young person’s development, affecting
Touchstone Foundation is proud to welcome Madeline Mitchell as our new Programs Manager. Madeline brings with her a wealth of experience in psychology, social
Celebrating Inclusion: A Conversation on Autism Acceptance Month with Amanda Katchur, PsyD, MPH Autism Acceptance Month (designated April 1st-April 30th) is more than just a
Breaking Down Substance Use, Mental Health, and Support Systems National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week is an important time to address misconceptions about substance use,
Understanding Self-Harm: Insights from Dr. Pat Anderson ⚠️ Content Warning: Self Harm⚠️ Self-harm is a complex and often misunderstood behavior, affecting individuals across various ages
The Power of Kindness: An Interview with Educator Ramon Rivera Kindness has the power to transform lives, especially in the classroom For students, feeling seen
Breaking the Silence: Preventing Teen Dating Violence and Empowering Youth February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM). In a world where many shy away
Building Confidence from Within: Insights on Mental Well-Being, Self-Esteem, and Self-Worth Featuring: Board Member Dr. Valerie Minnich, PhD, LPC (PA), NCC, CAADC, ACS Growing Up
Celebrating Black History Month: Empowering Young Voices for Mental Health, Equity, and Advocacy At Touchstone Foundation, we recognize the importance of understanding history and promoting
February is a time to celebrate Black History Month and reflect on the remarkable contributions of Black leaders, innovators, and trailblazers. At Touchstone Foundation, we
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that” – Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. MLK Day typically marks a day of
Internship Spotlight Welcome Hope Davis (They/Them) to the Touchstone Foundation team as our Communications Assistant 2025 intern! Hope recently graduated cum laude
It is with a mix of gratitude and well wishes that we announce the departure of Shanece Bowman, who served as Programs Manager at Touchstone
When we think of self-care, images of quiet solitude often come to mind—curling up with a book, meditating, or enjoying a warm bath. But self-care
Today, on International Migrant Day, we shine a spotlight on the resilience of immigrant and refugee communities while raising awareness of the mental health challenges
The challenges of recruiting and retaining skilled professionals are pressing issues across many industries—but particularly in behavioral health, where the need for talented individuals
Bridging the Gap: Supporting Youth Mental Wellness in Lancaster County At Touchstone Foundation, our mission is to foster a community where every young person in
Highlighting Erika Snitzer’s Experience at the Rise Above Summit We’re excited to share a recent blog post by Samaritan Center featuring Erika Snitzer, one of
Thank you Lancaster County! Touchstone Foundation: Celebrating 25 Years of Impact As we reflect on 25 years of dedication to youth mental wellness in Lancaster
Touchstone Foundation Expands Youth Mental Health Program with $35,000 Next Generation Grant We’re thrilled to announce that we have been awarded a $35,000 grant from
Nicole Hess recently completed her Touchstone Foundation Mental Health Clinical Fellowship. Her story highlights the importance of mentorship, financial support, and supervision in helping emerging
As we focus on Suicide Prevention Month, Touchstone Foundation emphasizes the importance of fostering open, honest conversations about mental health and creating safe spaces where
At Touchstone Foundation, we continue to mourn the loss of our dear friend and board member, Bill Zee. His dedication to mental health—especially in supporting
Navigating mental health care can be challenging, especially when the high costs of therapy presents a significant barrier for families and individuals. Touchstone Foundation’s Mental
The Touchstone Foundation Mental Health Clinical Fellowship was created to support emerging Lancaster County counselors on their path to licensure, providing essential resources such as
Registration is now open: Register here. LANCASTER, PA Content warning – this post discusses thoughts of suicide. If you or someone you know is having
Touchstone Foundation is thrilled to welcome Casey Flores as the new Communications Manager for the Touchstone Foundation. Casey comes to us with an impressive background
The Touchstone Foundation Mental Health Clinical Fellowship provides essential support for aspiring mental health counselors in Lancaster County. Christina Del Vecchio recently completed her fellowship
The Touchstone Foundation recently led the first “Moment to Breathe” session for the new school year. The event, held on August 21st, marked a successful
The Touchstone Foundation Mental Health Clinical Fellowship was created to support emerging Lancaster County counselors on their journey toward licensure, offering resources, mentorship, and financial
Touchstone Foundation Symposium Join us on Friday, October 16th, 2026 for our third-annual Symposium! Touchstone Foundation Symposium: Pathways to Mental Health Careers We Invite you
LANCASTER, PA – The Touchstone Foundation announces their new Youth Mentorship Partnership Funds have been awarded. This new program supports staff and volunteer training to
On July 1, 1999, Community Hospital of Lancaster was sold to HMA Associates, and the sale proceeds created the Lancaster Osteopathic Health Supporting Organization. Lancaster
We are excited to welcome Lindsay Ditlow, who is joining us as one of our 2024-2025 interns. Lindsay grew up in Dayton, Ohio. She received
After just over two years at Touchstone Foundation, Communications & Development Manager Sobeida Rosa is leaving us on May 31. Sobeida plans to continue her
Why is educating our kids on mental health so important? Recent data from the CDC shows key improvements in youth mental health between 2021 and
What does self-care look like as a parent? As a parent or caregiver, your first priority is usually not yourself. You worry about your kids,
We’re excited to welcome Dominic Taylor, who is joining us as one of our summer 2024 interns. Dominic is from Lancaster, PA and will be
We’re excited to welcome Sarah Laney, who is joining us as one of our summer 2024 interns. Sarah is from Lebanon, PA and will be
Touchstone Foundation staff Anna Kennedy and Shanece Bowman joined colleagues from health foundations across Pennsylvania in Harrisburg on April 9th to discuss policy and systems
Do you have questions about health coverage? Have you recently had your state health coverage terminated? Is your employer’s health care expensive and you are
The Touchstone Foundation has started to collaborate with organizations in Lancaster County to implement a Youth Mentorship Partnership Program. This program aims to connect Lancaster
Touchstone Foundation celebrates our 25th anniversary in 2024. On July 1, 1999, after the sale of Community Hospital of Lancaster, Touchstone Foundation became an independent
LANCASTER, PA – Touchstone Foundation announces the appointment of two new members to its Board of Directors. Chris Lesser, MBA, Board Member. Chris Lesser is
Photo by William Fonteneau on Unsplash Last week our community lost a young person who identified as LGBTQIA+. This is the third young person in
LANCASTER, PA – Touchstone Foundation announces its third annual event + auction, “Feast of the Senses” to be held on Thursday, May 9, 2024, at Excelsior
LANCASTER, PA – Touchstone Foundation announces a major program expansion, increasing access to mental healthcare for children, young people, and their families. Now, Touchstone Foundation
LANCASTER, PA – Touchstone Foundation announces at least $50,000 in new funding available to support youth mentorship in Lancaster County, PA. Youth mentorship funds are available for
LANCASTER, PA – Touchstone Foundation awarded $58,855 in its “Community Connections Micro-Grants” program to support youth mental wellness efforts in Lancaster County, PA. The following
On November 8, we released our Youth Mental Wellness Needs Assessment. Thank you to our gracious hosts at the S. Dale High Foundation Center. We
“It is our responsibility, for all of us, as adults, to keep kids safe.” Anna Kennedy Executive Director Photo by Mercedes Mehling on Unsplash Our
Today, we celebrate National Coming Out Day and want to focus on LGBTQ+ mental health. It takes immense courage for individuals to come out, but
We’re excited to welcome Emily Crahall, who is joining us as one of our Fall 2023 Interns. Emily is from Dallas, PA and will be
We’re excited to welcome Bemnet Bekele, who is joining us as one of our Fall 2023 Interns. Bemnet will be graduating Millersville University in May
The Rise Above: Eliminating Stigma in Youth Mental Wellness youth summit is a collaboration between the Touchstone Foundation and The Hood Hippie Love Yourself. This
The Rise Above: Eliminating Stigma in Youth Mental Wellness youth summit is a collaboration between the Touchstone Foundation and The Hood Hippie Love Yourself. This summer we
This month Touchstone Foundation celebrates its 24th anniversary! We asked our board members a variety of questions regarding their mental health journey and we wanted
At Touchstone Foundation, we provide scholarships to students who are passionate about children’s mental health. We previously sat down with Rebecca Cox-Davenport, a LOHF nursing
Who is Ellie? Ellie has always been passionate about many social issues including gender equity, racial justice, and education reform. Her passions led her to
Every 3rd Thursday of the month this year, we have been able to host Pride Poetry in our office. Since June is Pride month, we
By: Julia Longenecker, Communications and Marketing Assistant Hajji Payne/Nevaeha “Talk to someone. One of the biggest things about mental health is that we like to
We’re excited to welcome Julia Longenecker, who joined us as our Communications and Marketing Assistant at the beginning of May. Julia is from Ephrata, PA
The Rise Above: Eliminating Stigma in Youth Mental Wellness youth summit is a collaboration between the Touchstone Foundation and The Hood Hippie Love Yourself. Throughout the summit
Earlier this week there was an incident at Prince of Subs restaurant, located on South Prince Street near the Save-A-Lot grocery store, Carter & MacRae
Although Hispanic Heritage Month is from September 15th to October 15th, we wanted to still highlight people in the community throughout the month of October.
Although Hispanic Heritage Month is from September 15th to October 15th, we wanted to still highlight people in the community throughout the month of October.
September 15th to October 15th is Hispanic Heritage Month. We wanted to take the time to highlight members of our community who are doing amazing
September 15th to October 15th is Hispanic Heritage Month. We wanted to take the time to highlight members of our community who are doing amazing
Since 2015, Touchstone Foundation, formerly known as LOHF (Lancaster Osteopathic Health Foundation) has provided children’s behavioral health grants to improve access for youth and families
LANCASTER, PA – Gun violence in the United States is a very pervasive issue and one that we have been hearing about with disturbing frequency. Activities that
LANCASTER, PA – The Touchstone Foundation has awarded their Children’s Behavioral Health Grants. This year the Touchstone Foundation has awarded $55,000 to 5 local organizations
LANCASTER, PA – It has been a week since the United States Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. At the Touchstone Foundation, we stand
https://youtu.be/H-QMtYuoRWk The month of May was the launch of “Touchstone Chats”! This is a monthly discussion group where we discuss topics of mental health through
Happy Asian American Pacific Islander Month! We are wrapping up our Q&A series and our final highlight is Jamy Kunjappu! Jamy Kunjappu is a visual artist
Happy Asian American Pacific Islander Month! We are continuing our Q&A series with some members of our community on the topic of mental wellness in
By: Amanda Katchur, Psy.D. Licensed Therapist and Touchstone Foundation Board Member This morning, with my heart in my throat, I sent my 3-year-old and 7-year-old
Happy Asian American Pacific Islander Month! We are continuing our Q&A series with some members of our community on the topic of mental wellness in
Happy Asian American Pacific Islander Month! We are continuing our Q&A series with some members of our community on the topic of mental wellness in
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and Asian American Pacific Islander Month! We wanted to take the time to highlight members of our community who
For over 20 years, the Touchstone Foundation has awarded scholarships to hundreds of nursing students to develop the nursing workforce in Lancaster County. Since 2014,
Our LCSC is approaching the end of year two of the three-year initiative with 10 public and private mental healthcare agencies participating. As we move
LANCASTER, PA – The Touchstone Foundation (formerly LOHF, the Lancaster Osteopathic Health Foundation) is now accepting applications for its annual Children’s Behavioral Health Grants and Mental Health Careers Scholarships. Each year the Touchstone Foundation
Happy Black History Month! Winding down on our community highlights, last but not least in our series is Patience Buckwalter, CEO and Founder Grape Leaf Cafe
Happy Black History Month! We are continuing our Q&A series with some members of our community on the topic of mental wellness in connection with
Happy Black History Month! This month we’re highlighting members of our community – some close to the organization and others that have been doing work
Happy Black History Month! Continuing our Q&A series we are talking to our Programs Manager, Shanece Bowman! Shanece has been with the Touchtone Foundation for 2 1/2
Happy Black History Month! This month we’re highlighting members of our community – some close to the organization and others that have been doing work
Happy Black History Month! We are doing a Q&A series with some members of our community on the topic of mental wellness in connection with
We are grateful for more than 40 committee and board volunteers whose guidance makes it possible to enhance the mental well-being of youth and children
We are thrilled to announce and welcome Sobeida Rosa to our staff as our Communications & Development Manager at Touchstone Foundation! Sobeida comes to us
Welcome back to our Programs Manager Shanece Bowman, as she returned from maternity leave on January 4. Shanece and her family, husband Jacob and son
Our work would not be possible without the leadership, dedication, and diverse expertise of more than 30 volunteers who serve on our committees and board.
A team of more than 30 volunteers serving on our board and committees help make our work possible. Board member Stacey Denlinger, DO, is one
After more than 5 years at LOHF, Communication Director Jeannette Scott is leaving us on Dec. 10. Jeannette will continue to grow her leadership and
In Pennsylvania and across the United States, we have an inadequate supply of child and adolescent behavioral health therapists, counselors, and especially psychiatrists. 1 Social
This Thanksgiving, we are so grateful for the outpouring of support for our work to improve youth mental wellness here at LOHF. We honor and
Youth and children are experiencing anxiety, depression and other mental health problems in record numbers, even more so since the pandemic. Many of them have
Our Maternal Mental Wellness program is a new effort, raising awareness of perinatal and postpartum depression/anxiety, connecting pregnant people to care, eliminating racial disparities in
As if long waiting lists and a shortage of therapists were not hard enough, high copays and deductibles create a barrier that prevents many insured
With a four-person staff (three are part time), our mission to improve youth mental health is accomplished through our more than 30 dedicated volunteers. Volunteers
LOHF is launching a new scholarship program for college students pursuing degrees to enter the mental healthcare field. This program will further one of our
We could not be successful at improving mental well-being for youth and children without the dedication and expertise of volunteers like Carolyn Bruey, PsyD, BCBA.
There is an inadequate supply of mental healthcare providers serving youth and children. Coupled with increasing demand for services, this has caused extended wait times
My daughter started second grade last month, at a new school, during the COVID pandemic. She’s doing well so far. And I’m grateful that her
The demand for behavioral healthcare for youth and children in Lancaster County is high. Primary care providers struggle to make referrals for therapy or related
We are truly grateful for the leadership, expertise, and compassion that Adam Biuckians brings to LOHF as the current Chair of our Board of Directors
We are pleased to welcome Amy Swanger to our staff as our Operations Manager! Amy comes to us with a wealth of experience, leadership, and
We are grateful for the expertise and perspective that Millersville University Associate Professor of Sociology Carrie Lee Smith brings to the board of directors at
Lancaster, PA — The Lancaster Osteopathic Health Foundation (LOHF) announces the recipients of the 2021 Nurse Education Scholarship. The purpose of the Nurse Education Scholarship Program is to develop the workforce that
Has the pandemic put more youth and children at risk of addiction? In a survey completed by the Addiction Policy Forum, 24% percent of respondents indicated that their substance use, or that of
Sean Post is LOHF’s current Treasurer and member of our Board, our Audit Committee, and our Finance and Investment Committee. He is Manager at Trout
We’re excited to welcome Victoria Carty, who joined us as a summer intern on June 21. Victoria will be a senior at Franklin and Marshall
We’re pleased to recently award an LOHF Children’s Behavioral Health Grant to the Diversifying Doulas program of Patients R Waiting. We are excited to see
Lancaster Clinical Supervision Collaborative Marks 1 Year This month, we are completing the first year of our three-year effort to help 30 mental health providers
Connell O’Brien is LOHF’s board vice chair. In his notable career, he has been a family therapist and led programs for child and adolescent behavioral
We’re pleased to recently award an LOHF Children’s Behavioral Health Grant to the Open Gym program of Bench Mark. We are excited to see how
We’re pleased to recently award an LOHF Children’s Behavioral Health Grant to Horizons at Lancaster Country Day School. We are excited to see how this
The streets sell a lifestyle rooted in brotherhood, protection, and opportunity, but with the potential for great personal costs. Despite the positive trend of mentoring,
Dee Minchhoff, DNP, RN, is a longtime volunteer and friend of LOHF. She has served on our Nurse Scholarship Committee for many years, and is
Anita is a physician at Schaefferstown Family Practice. She currently serves as a volunteer board member and on our Access Committee. She previously served on
At LOHF, we offer Mental Health Copay Assistance to youth, children, and parents of dependent children (ages 0-25) who live in Lancaster County, PA, and
One year into the COVID-19 pandemic, the LOHF Mental Health Copay Assistance program continues to help those in financial need who need mental health services.
CHI St. Joseph Children’s Health believes all health is tied to emotional health. CHI promotes wellness by providing preventative strategies for children and families and
LOHF Scholarship Recipient Jeimary Ramos Malave, RN says the rewards of a nursing career are worth the challenges of educational rigor and caring for others.
It’s difficult to become a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania. Candidates, or fellows, must obtain 3,000 hours, or the equivalent of 75 weeks, of oversight by
In March, we welcomed new board members. We look forward to their leadership and insight. Stacey Denlinger, DO is a physician at CovenantMD, Lancaster. She
Recidivism is a challenge in the juvenile justice system. Teenagers who are incarcerated tend to have substantially worse outcomes later in life than those who avoid
Pennsylvania has a demanding list of requirements for therapists seeking a license. Candidates, or fellows, must log 3,000 hours, or the equivalent of 75 weeks,
The teen years can be a difficult time. These years are often academically and socially challenging. And as bodies and minds are changing and growing,
The process to become a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania is a complicated one. Candidates, or fellows, must obtain 3,000 hours, and a minimum of two
By Anna Kennedy, Executive Director of LOHF A year ago, my daughter was in kindergarten, and we were enjoying a busy routine of swim classes
LOHF grants funds to organizations working to improve the mental health of youth and teens in Lancaster County. In the fall of 2020, Samaritan Counseling’s
LOHF grants funds to organizations working to improve the mental health of youth and teens in Lancaster County. In the fall of 2020, Patients R
Children are naturally moody. Their developing minds and bodies can shift from happy to furious in a moment. So it can be difficult for parents
LOHF grants fund organizations working to improve the mental health of youth and teens in Lancaster County. In the fall of 2020, Elizabethtown Community Outreach
LOHF grants funds to organizations working to improve the mental health of youth and teens in Lancaster County. In the fall of 2020, COBYS was
Suicide affects millions of people in the United States every year. There were 1.4 million recorded suicide attempts in 2018 alone, many the result of untreated depression. Suicide also causes emotional devastation and triggers depression for the loved ones left behind who may be crushed by regret, guilt, and unspeakable grief. Learn more about how to seek help for friends and loved ones here.
In response to accelerated need for mental healthcare, Lancaster Cares issued a grant to LOHF to broaden eligibility for its free Mental Health Copay Assistance program. The program expanded beyond the previous restrictions of ages 0-25 and those with dependent children to include any county resident whose income is impacted by COVID-19. LOHF has also collaborated with Mental Health America of Lancaster County (MHA) to include LOHF’s copay program in MHA’s bundle of free mental health services.
Although most people in the general population have heard of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), this term is relatively new. The term “autism” was first coined in the 1950s by Dr. Leo Kanner, who identified a group of children demonstrating unique characteristics in social and communication skills, as well as odd repetitive behaviors.
In these difficult times it is often hard to know where to turn to for resources. The feelings of grief, loss, and frustration are ever present. Please know that LOHF is here to offer support to all members of our diverse community. Below are some resources specific to our Spanish-speaking residents.
Treatment and care for mental health-related issues occurs in a variety of settings. The specific setting, and level or type of care, depends on a few factors: the nature and severity of the person’s mental condition, their physical health, and the type of treatment that is needed. The primary treatment settings for receiving mental health care or services are hospital inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient care, and outpatient. Mental healthcare services are also increasingly being provided by telephone and videoconferencing (such as Facetime, Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, etc.)
By Shanece Bowman, LOHF Programs Manager Before beginning my position at LOHF as Programs Manager last year, I developed a passion for children’s mental health
Announcing the recipients of the 2020 LOHF Nurse Education Scholarship. The purpose of the Nurse Education Scholarship Program is to develop the workforce that cares for
Behavioral healthcare providers were already struggling to meet demand for services. The impact of COVID-19 has made access to mental health services even more challenging. Many more people are experiencing anxiety and depression and cannot access care due to job loss or reduction of hours and pay. This is especially true for some of our most vulnerable—youth, children, and young adults.
Springfield Psychological is offering free, weekly, online support groups for physicians, first responders, Nurses, and long-term care workers. The goal is to provide free emotional support, encouragement and compassionate self-care strategies. This is a support group only and is not intended to provide professional therapy.
LANCASTER, PA – LOHF announces the first eight organizations to join the new LOHF Clinical Supervision Collaborative (LCSC) in response to the inadequate supply of child/youth mental healthcare professionals in Lancaster County. This is funded for 3 years, in part by a grant from the Steinman Foundation
LOHF recently awarded funding to four Lancaster County children’s behavioral health programs. These programs improve the mental well-being of youth and children, especially those who may not otherwise get the support they need. The LOHF grants program is an important part of our strategy to improve access to behavioral healthcare for young people in Lancaster County.
Black Lives Matter. We need to do better, because our friends and neighbors deserve better. All human beings deserve dignity and respect. Our community is hurting, our nation is hurting, and this hurt has been festering far too long.
In support of helping professionals during COVID-19, we hosted a Zoom series “Self-Care Check-in for Helping Professionals.” Here, we have provided the recordings and links from each one. Each 30-minute session includes practice of at least one self-care exercise, and an interactive discussion with a special guest on a particular aspect of self-care for those caring for others. These are inclusive for any helping professional, whether on the frontlines of managing the pandemic, or helping people in other ways. This includes healthcare professionals, teachers, counselors, and so many more professions that serve others. We hope this will be a helpful resource to revisit from time to time, and to share with others.
Pennsylvania has just authorized mental health care providers to be able to offer patient visits via telephone and video communication platforms such as FaceTime, Zoom, or Skype.
LOHF Mental Health Copay Assistance helps youth and children birth—25 years old, and parents of dependent children ages birth—25 years old, with a financial need. This program lowers copays to just $10 per visit to a licensed mental healthcare professional, such as a therapist or psychiatrist.
When I (John) arrived at the grocery store today, I was shocked by what I saw. Lines were 10 deep at the checkout and shelves had been swept clean of canned foods, toilet paper, bottled water and cleaning supplies. There was a palatable feeling of anxiety there with grim faces and tight body language.
By Carli Youndt MSN; Warwick High School Nurse; LOHF Board Member What do you think of when you hear the word, “childhood?” A person? A
We want to hear from parents & caregivers about your challenges accessing mental healthcare for you or your child. So we’re touring the county to
$47,781 in Grants Awarded to Elevate the Mental Well-being of Youth and Children in Lancaster County More funds available in 2020 LOHF on Oct. 22
Welcome, Shanece Bowman! Congratulations, Lisa Riffanacht! Shanece Bowman, Programs Manager We’re excited to welcome Shanece Bowman to LOHF as our new part-time Programs Manager, and
Anna and Mia Kennedy Keeping Kids Resilient Helping them cope with upsetting things in life and the news By Anna Kennedy, Executive Director My daughter,
We’re Hiring at LOHF We are in search of a part-time Programs Manager. This person will oversee LOHF’s five programs: NavWell, Children’s Behavioral Health Grants,
The Lancaster Osteopathic Health Foundation (LOHF) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2019 Nurse Education Scholarship. The purpose of the Nurse Education Scholarship Program
By Anna Kennedy, Executive Director One of the ways we elevate the mental well-being of youth and children in Lancaster County is by educating
Lancaster County youth ages 14-21 in foster care are one of the most vulnerable populations. These teens and young adults have endured the trauma of
Lancaster County youth ages 14-21 in foster care are one of the most vulnerable populations. These teens and young adults have endured the trauma of
Now Accepting Nurse Scholarship ApplicationsEach year nursing scholarships are awarded to students beginning their nursing education, those pursuing an LPN, RN, BSN, MSN, or other
We’re gathering students, facilitators, and artists to share reflections and help shape what’s next. Your voice matters—join us!
Make your impact by donating at the link below on November 21st, and come celebrate with us at the Greatest Giving Gig at Tellus360 from 5–8 PM. Together, we can elevate mental health for Lancaster’s youth!