05/26/2026
Behind every thriving child is a caregiver doing their best to navigate the beautiful, busy journey of growth. ❤️ As we wrap up Mental Health Awareness Month, we want to remind our community that mental well-being isn’t a destination—it’s built through the small, daily habits we practice together as families.
Whether it's supporting sensory regulation through a quiet break, celebrating a unique communication milestone, or practicing co-regulation during a tough moment, you are doing incredible work. (And remember the golden rule on our graphic: Be gentle with yourself! 🥰)
Building a thriving environment for your child takes a village. To help you expand yours, we’ve gathered 5 incredible, completely FREE mental health and community navigation resources right here in Grand Rapids that align beautifully with our CTC families:
1. 🌟 Family Outreach Center Family Outreach Center
If insurance barriers, high deductibles, or lack of coverage make it hard to access emotional support, they provide free outpatient mental health services for families navigating tight budgets.
📞 Learn more: (616) 247-3815
2. 🧸 Ele’s Place Ele's Place - West Michigan
A compassionate, dedicated nonprofit supporting children, teens, and families grieving the loss of a loved one. Thanks to community donors, their peer support groups are entirely free and help children learn to cope with loss in a safe, therapeutic environment.
📞 Learn more: (616) 301-1605
3. 🛡️ Network180 Network180
When you need immediate, 24/7 help navigating a severe mental health crisis, Network180 is Kent County’s community authority. Adults can utilize the Behavioral Health Crisis Center on Fuller Ave, and their Mobile Crisis Response team is available around the clock for children and families.
📞 Crisis Hotline: (616) 336-3909 or call/text 988
4. 🤝 NAMI Kent County NAMI
NAMI offers entirely free educational programs, advocacy, and peer-led support groups. It’s an invaluable, zero-cost resource for parents looking to connect with other caregivers who truly understand the journey.
📞 Learn more: (616) 559-0045
5. 🏥 Kent County Health Connect Kent County Health Connect
Not sure where to turn or what programs your family qualifies for? Supported by the Kent County Health Department, this online navigation hub connects families directly to free or low-cost mental health care, health insurance assistance, and local food security programs.
🌐 Learn more: kentcountyhealthconnect.org
We are so proud to walk, talk, learn, play, and heal alongside this amazing community. Please save this post, share it with a friend, and remember that support is always within reach. 💙