How will it make a difference ?
Mental illness touches all our lives- even when we don’t realize it. The next time you’re in a crowded restaurant, at the movies or sitting in an airport, remember that one in every four people you see is dealing with mental illness issues of the some type. At least as many have substance abuse problems. These aren’t strangers. They are family members, colleagues, neighbors and friends and they need our support. The Mental Health and Recovery Services Board provides the funding to give them strength in troubled times. Won’t you please return the favor?

Register to vote • Request an Absentee Ballot

Q:
If the MHRSB levy does not pass, what will happen?		 A:
A significant number of programs and services are funded with the projected $7.3 million the levy will generate. If the levy fails to pass, the MHRSB will look to its member agencies to determine how they will need to cut back within their own organizations, which means reductions in programs and services and the possible discontinuation of new or very specific services. There are some agencies whose only source of funding is the MHRSB. Those organizations will have to find new sources to fund their cause, or close their doors.

There is also a safety component that will be compromised as a result of cutbacks in funding. People needing help, resources and medications for serious illnesses may go without which presents a risk to public safety and security.
Q:
If that were to occur, what would happen to those in need?		 A:
Obviously, these problems will not go away if the levy fails. The Stark County court system, area hospitals, churches, the United Way of Greater Stark County and other social service organizations will be looked to in order to fill the need. The stress on an already strained system will be significant. There will be those who fall through the cracks and those who will not be able to get the help they need.
Q:
I live in Alliance and I don’t know of anyone who needs these types of help. Why should I support this?		 A:
One-in-four people suffer from mental illness and over 21,000 people in Stark County received help and prevention services in 2007. An unknown, much larger number of people came through the system unidentified. The numbers are staggering and they come from all over the county. The problem is not simply isolated to urban areas. From Minerva to Navarre, Jackson Township to North Canton, mental illness and substance abuse knows no geography. They are equal opportunity afflictions.

Q:

How can I help?

A:

  • There are many ways you can make a difference:
    Consider a financial contribution to Stark Cares. Just click here to donate online using PayPal. Checks can be made out to Stark Cares, 800 Market Ave. N, Ste 1150, Canton, OH 44702.
  • Join thousands of Stark Countians in showing support by giving us a written endorsement like the ones you see here.
  • Volunteer your time and resources by contacting Paula Mastroianni, Director of Community, Criminal Justice and Provider Relations for the MHRSB at pmastroianni@starkmhrsb.org or by calling (330) 455-6644.
  • And most importantly, you can VOTE YES for the MHRSB levy on the November ballot!
    Thousands of lives saved. No new taxes.

Home • What is the Issue? • How will it make a difference? • About Us • Affiliated Agencies • Levy Supporters • Contact Us • Volunteer Login
Paid for by Stark Cares, Curt Werren, Treasurer, 800 Market Ave. N, Ste. 1150, Canton, OH 44702