UHS hosted a Mental Health Fair at Benjamin Franklin Elementary School in Binghamton on Thursday, May 7, in recognition of May as Mental Health Awareness Month.
The event was hosted by Jessica Blakeslee, LCSW, and Caroline Lewis, LMSW, therapists at the Theodore Roosevelt School‑Based Health Clinic and Benjamin Franklin School‑Based Health Clinic, and was designed to connect students, families, and staff with local mental health and community resources. Fourteen local organizations were on site, offering information, activities, and support to families throughout the evening.
Several UHS departments were represented at the fair, including Stacey Pendell, NP, from the School‑Based Health Clinic; Sherri Reed, UHS Pediatric Nutritionist; Cara Fraser, LCSW, Director of Social Work; and Elvira Toric from UHS Pediatrics, all of whom participated by tabling and engaging with families.
The fair also provided a full‑service dinner for families, generously prepared by UHS Food and Nutrition. The meal included baked ziti with meat sauce, salad, rolls, cookies, beverages, and more, allowing families to enjoy a shared meal while learning about mental health supports available in the community.
“Events like this are important because they reduce barriers to care, strengthen community connections, and help normalize conversations around mental health starting at a young age,” said Ms. Blakeslee.
UHS School‑Based Health Clinics at Benjamin Franklin and Theodore Roosevelt elementary schools provide year‑round physical health services, vaccinations, and mental health care to students and families, supporting wellness both inside and outside the classroom.
