LYNCHBURG, Va. – A new chapter in community mental health care began on Tuesday as Essential Hands officially opened the doors to its new four-bedroom residential facility. The organization held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the launch of what leaders say is the first facility of its kind for adults in Lynchburg.
Co-founder and registered nurse, Tiffany Ayers, shared her personal motivation behind the initiative.
“I wanted to open it for the community because mental health is very important,” Ayers said. “It’s something close to my heart. I have family members who suffer from mental health issues, and this is our response to that need in this community.”
Germaine Lovelace, also a co-founder, echoed the sentiment.
“My dad is in a facility at the moment,” Lovelace said. “I cared for him before he went into the facility so my heart really goes out to giving back to people with mental health issues.”
The home is licensed by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and is designed to support adults aged 18 and older who experience mental or behavioral health challenges.
Essential Hands will begin accepting residents on October 1st. Those interested in applying are encouraged to reach out to the organization by phone or email to begin the process. Leaders say there is no set limit on how long an individual can stay, residents are welcome to stay in the home for as long as they need. Co-founder, Jarell Hall, says the Lynchburg facility is only the beginning for Essential Hands.
“We’re excited to branch out,” Hall said. “Whether it’s other mental health homes or transportation services, there’s so many different elements we can tap into. The sky is the limit for us when it comes to helping everyone.”
The three founders say their long-term vision includes expanding both services and the number of homes to serve even more residents across the region.