Lancaster County proclaims May 2026 Mental Health Awareness Month; county-funded crisis center reports 300+ admissions

Lancaster County commissioners unanimously proclaimed May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Month at their May 12 meeting and praised local crisis services for reducing harm in the community.

Jeff Kilpatrick of Community Corrections said county staff ‘‘interact on a daily basis with individuals suffering from mental health issues’’ and thanked partner organizations. Jamie Scott, chief crisis and outreach officer for Integrated Behavioral Health Services, told the board the county-supported Vulnerable Client Response Center (VCRC) has recorded ‘‘over 300 individual admissions so far’’ since opening and thanked commissioners for backing the center.

Commissioners read a formal proclamation noting the national recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month since 1949 and the county’s interest in ‘‘raising awareness, increasing access to care, and supporting mental wellness.’’ Several commissioners commended the VCRC and partner organizations for their work improving community outcomes.

The board moved to adopt the proclamation and the motion carried on a unanimous roll call. Commissioners did not attach new funding directives in the meeting minutes but encouraged continued partnership and support for local mental health services.