As I write this, I’m looking at a sun-filled sky for what seems like the first time all month. I’m not sure I can remember another February that brought so much snow. While we can appreciate the beauty of the falling snow and the lovely landscape it brings, the days where we found ourselves “snowed in” added to the sense of isolation many of us were already feeling.

 

With February ending, we’re coming up on the one-year anniversary of stay-at-home orders that have kept us apart from family, friends, colleagues, and favorite places in our neighborhoods and beyond. We’re staying safe while keeping others safe, and that’s important. But it's not always easy.

 

The need for Uplift’s mental health supports continues to grow as Philadelphia reels from staggering rates of gun violence, poverty, suicide, drug- and COVID-related fatalities, as well as the fallout from job losses, violence, isolation, and racial injustice. And while the need for immediate grief support is significant, the long-term ramifications of these multiple health crises will be felt for years. Long after wide-spread vaccination is achieved, Philadelphia will still be experiencing the mental health consequences of the pandemic and co-occurring crises.

 

We need your help to ensure Uplift’s programs will be there for grieving children and families today and tomorrow. As the wait-lists for both family and school grief groups grow longer each day, your support will allow us to provide services to everyone reaching out. You are an integral part of making Uplift’s work happen, thank you!

 

Stay safe and well.

With sincere thanks,