APA Donates $27K to San Francisco Children’s Network

At the Opening Session of APA’s 2023 Annual Meeting, then APA President Rebecca Brendel, M.D., J.D., presented a check for $27,106 to the San Francisco Homeless Children’s Network (HCN). Holding the check are (from left) Brendel; APA administration members Alexa Haverlah and Dana Harris; and Shareef Salaam, the organization’s executive consultant for program impact and development. Now in its 14th year, “APA Gives Back” provides an opportunity for APA, its members, and Annual Meeting attendees to support a charitable organization in the city in which the meeting is held.

Since 1992, HCN has collaborated with over 52 housing agencies to provide continuity and stability for the homeless population in San Francisco, including families with children from infants to age 25 and expectant parents. Annually, HCN serves more than 2,400 individuals who are experiencing homelessness, have formerly experienced homelessness, or are at risk of it.

HCN offers security and reliability for children, youth, and families to improve their mental health and functioning, develop coping skills, improve relationships with family members, and facilitate connections with educational programs, peers, and community.

“We are so pleased to support the Homeless Children’s Network through APA Gives Back,” said Brendel. “Their work, especially as it impacts the mental health of young people experiencing homelessness in San Francisco, makes such a positive difference in thousands of people’s lives.”

HCN aims to improve behavioral health outcomes for the population it serves with an intentional focus on Black/African American individuals and families in San Francisco, addressing the historical legacy of intergenerational racism, inequity, and trauma within the community. While supporting individuals and families of all backgrounds, HCN places a specific emphasis on passionately and unconditionally affirming Blackness.

APA matched donations from members and meeting attendees dollar for dollar. ■