A statewide virtual rally calling on New York state leaders to address the child mental health crisis was held Sunday in central Islip.
The rally consisted of advocates, families and people dealing with mental health issues. Organizers hope to educate state officials and school leaders about their mental health-related needs.
Among the 200 participants was 18-year-old Kyle Buttner, who had been diagnosed with schizophrenia.
“I had to live my life with these voices in my head every day. It is not true that all these people who are suffering are not getting better and their problems are actually getting worse.”
Prior to the assembly, students and parents attended advocacy workshops, including one at Hands Across Long Island.
Andrea Stolz of LI Families Together said:
From here, organizers hope to form a statewide council and will meet with lawmakers next month.