Welcoming a New Chapter: Expanding Our Services with Howard University

We’ve always been committed to the holistic well-being of our community. Today, we are excited to announce a significant new step in that commitment: a partnership with Howard University to bring valuable mental health services to those we serve.

This collaboration marks an expansion of our mission, and we are incredibly proud to be working with one of the nation’s leading institutions to bring this support to our community.

We are delighted to introduce Rashanda Cooper, a Master of Social Work (MSW) student from Howard University. Rashanda, who just joined us on campus last week, is a familiar face to many—a proud New Bern native, a devoted wife and mother, and an ECU graduate. Her local roots and personal experience bring a unique and valuable perspective to her work.

Rashanda will be offering therapeutic mental health services and therapeutic group sessions. These sessions are designed to provide a safe, confidential, and supportive space where individuals can share their experiences, learn, and grow. We know that the challenges our community faces are often interconnected—and that the stress of things like food and housing insecurity can have a profound impact on a person's mental health. This new program is a testament to our belief that mental and emotional well-being are fundamental to a healthy life.

Read "Food Insecurity Is a Mental Health Crisis—Let’s Treat It Like One"

This is just the beginning. As we develop this program further, we will be sure to share more details on how you can access both the individual and group sessions.

Please join us in giving Rashanda a very warm welcome. We are thrilled to have her on our team and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our community.

Bringing vital services like these to our community requires consistent and reliable support. By becoming a monthly sustainer, you ensure that we can continue to offer these new mental health services and plan for the future with confidence. Your recurring gift provides a dependable foundation for the well-being of those we serve.

Become a Monthly Sustainer