The recently formed nonprofit The Renewal Project officially launches this month, with the mission of providing financial assistance for Alabamians seeking mental or behavioral health care, including drug and alcohol recovery services. The groundbreaking organization looks to address the most constant barrier to reliable care for these patients: cost.
The Renewal Project will supply financial assistance specific to individuals in financial hardship, especially the underinsured or uninsured, bridging financial gaps in their recommended treatment or therapy. Funding is sent to their provider as services are rendered. The organization will partner with licensed therapists, psychiatrists, and treatment providers across Alabama to help with various stages of care: counseling and therapy, inpatient and residential care, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, and recovery residences. Patient-centered, The Renewal Project said it plans to meet and support individuals where they are on their road to wellness.
“Mental and behavioral health issues, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and everything in between, impact countless residents across our state. If someone can’t afford care, it may fall to their family or may not happen at all,” said Liz Read, executive director of The Renewal Project. “We’re here to give those individuals a chance to access the treatment and support they need. No one ready and willing to get help should go without.”
The Renewal Project was conceptualized by Longleaf Recovery and Wellness, a renowned holistic mental health and substance use care center based in Birmingham. While The Renewal Project is a separate organization, it is through this initial development that it is gaining connection to valuable advocates, professionals, and providers across the state. Through collaboration with like-minded partners, The Renewal Project’s goal of increasing access to personalized, affordable care for individuals is achievable and sustainable. The Renewal Project said it is currently welcoming mental and behavioral health professionals and providers in Alabama to join their partnership directory.
As it launches, The Renewal Project operates under a fiscal sponsorship with the Addiction Prevention Coalition, a well-established Birmingham-based nonprofit committed to prevention education and recovery connection. While awaiting 501c3 approval, this sponsorship allows The Renewal Project to become a reality for Alabama residents and address the growing and urgent mental health crisis occurring in the state.
“The Renewal Project’s mission of supporting all Alabamians with their mental and behavioral health needs is a charge near and dear to us, and one we are endlessly proud to support,” said Nichole Dawsey, executive director of the Addiction Prevention Coalition. “All Alabamians, regardless of their financial situation, deserve access, compassion and support. More treatment options mean more people living fuller, healthier lives.”
Through community outreach and donor support, The Renewal Project said it plans to distribute its first round of treatment assistance later this year.
