Mental Health Foundation marks 25 years with “The Happiness Event”

CAY HILL--The Mental Health Foundation (MHF) will celebrate 25 years of service to St. Maarten with “The Happiness Event,” a community street fair on Friday, October 9, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Foundation’s headquarters on Leopard Road #1 in Cay Hill.

The event is also being held in recognition of World Mental Health Day and is designed to bring the community together in a welcoming environment centered on mental health awareness, connection and support.

Activities will include a live DJ, opportunities to meet MHF staff, information booths from community partners, children’s activities, food and beverage vendors, special guests and free raffle prizes. Staff and clients will also be available to provide information about the Foundation and its services.

“For 25 years, the Mental Health Foundation has worked to support individuals, families, and the wider community,” said MHF Medical Director Dr. Hendrikus van Gaalen. “The Happiness Event is an opportunity to recognize that journey, strengthen community connections, and remind everyone that good mental health matters.”

As part of the anniversary activities, MHF is also launching a social media contest under the theme “Show Us Your Happy.” Members of the public are being invited to post Facebook images showing the places and things that make them happy.

The contest will run from Monday, October 5, through World Mental Health Day on Saturday, October 10, using the hashtag #myhappysxm. A Samsung Galaxy A07, donated by law firm BZSE, will be awarded as the grand prize.

MHF was founded on October 10, 2001, by the Government of St. Maarten as a psychiatric crisis response facility. Over the past 25 years, it has expanded its services to include therapy, day treatment, short- and long-stay care, a mobile crisis response team and four community wellness offices.

The Foundation said its mission continues to focus on crisis prevention and reducing the impact of mental health conditions on individuals, families and the wider society.

Anyone in need of emergency mental health support can contact the MHF crisis support line at 721-585-5556.

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