To the Editor:    

Mental Health America of Beaufort/Jasper and the Island House program serve adults who live with a mental health diagnosis, and for whom recovery is a goal. The mission of MHABJ and the Island House program is to promote wellness and support to those with mental illness through advocacy, education, research, and service.

The program commits to work that promotes mental health, prevents mental disorders, and offers continuous improvement services that center on enhancing the lives of persons served.

COVID-19 required a change in the way core functions and services are delivered. The Island House program suspended regular face-to-face services last year from March until June and has yet to return to its pre-COVID census. The program’s therapeutic element program has shifted to prioritize personal health and safety measures, and the responsibility for practicing those measures in the community.

The Island House program wishes to acknowledge the kindness and generosity of  community stakeholders that have supported some of our most vulnerable citizens during this trying time. They include the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, Coastal Community Foundation, Operation Colleton River, Second Helpings, Calhoun Station, Hampton Hall Charitable Fund, St. Francis Thrift, Walmart Foundation, Palmetto Electric Trust, Luther Charitable Fund, and a number of anonymous donors and in-kind supporters. Your belief in our mission and work is so appreciated.

Steve Maglione

Executive Director

To the Editor:

This is an open letter to all the residents of Hilton Head and Bluffton:

From all the small, independent businesses and restaurants – Thank You!

Thank you, this year especially, for putting more effort into supporting your

local businesses.

Because of your patronage, we will keep moving forward towards better days.

Because of your local spending, your dollars stay local, support more nonprofits, and support the goals of the area you love to call home.

You voted with your dollars for our survival and we thank you!

Be well!

Jennifer Megliore

Owner, ArtWare Inc.

Hilton Head Island