Mental health facility a community asset

We are responding to the article on the mental health center planned for Braddock Avenue in North Point Breeze ("Neighbors Resist Mental Health Center," June 19, PG East).

As longtime residents of North Point Breeze, we believe the center, which will be operated by Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, will be an asset for our community and all of Allegheny County.

At some point, many of us face personal challenges and crises. In such frightening and overwhelming times, people can benefit from the intervention and support of skilled mental health professionals.

Waiting for hours in a crowded emergency room in desperate times elevates stress, fear and despair. What a relief to have an alternative in a neighborhood-based center staffed 24 hours a day.

It is our hope that the Western Psychiatric center will be well received in our community and prove to be a valuable service to all, whatever neighborhood we live in.

DEBORAH GAUSMANN, CRAIG STEVENS

Point Breeze