Bertie County, a rural county located in eastern NC, has consistently faced challenges regarding health outcomes, especially regarding mental health and substance use. While there have been longstanding access and health equity issues, there is a strong spirit of community in Bertie County. Local organizations, providers, and residents recognize the need to address behavioral health in the county and are joining a collaboration facilitated by the Foundation for Health Leadership and Innovation (FHLI) to form the Bertie County Behavioral Health Network. This network will involve working with key community members, health and social organizations, and leaders to address the critical need for behavioral health support in Bertie County. FHLI and its fellow partners in Bertie County will share the expertise, resources, and commitment to plan the network and support the community with its launch.
Timeline
As of January 2024, FHLI staff helped acquire grant funding to extend the Bertie County Behavioral Health Network through September, 2025. Through 2024 and 2025, the Network will focus on:
- Providing harm reduction trainings and resources
- Expanding youth and family-based services, including integrating telehealth in Bertie County’s schools
- Launching a “Stop the Stigma” behavioral health and awareness campaign for diabetes and cardiovascular health
- Hosting Mental Health First Aid trainings
- Expanding the behavioral health workforce in Bertie County, including establishing career pathways for local youth to work in behavioral health
Meetings
The Bertie County Integrated Behavioral Health Network meets the third Tuesday of each month from 12 – 1:30 p.m. at the Bertie County Council on Aging/Senior Center. The meetings are in person and a virtual option will be available.
For more information or if you have questions, contact Sara Moscarelli at sara.moscarelli@foundationhli.org or Kelsey Yokovich at kelsey.yokovich@foundationhli.org.
