Garrett’s Space Awarded $4 Million for Residential Center

Garrett’s Space, a suicide prevention non-profit, is pleased to share that it is one of 15 community projects in Michigan’s 12^th Congressional District to receive funding as part of the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Appropriations Package. The $4 million award, secured by Congresswoman Debbie Dingell and further supported by Senator Debbie Stabenow, is designated to create a holistically focused residential center for young adults struggling with depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation.

“This federal funding supports the organizations in our cities and towns who work every day to strengthen our communities and improve the lives of those who live and work here,” says Representative Dingell. “I’m proud to secure this investment for Garrett’s Space, which provides a much needed safe and therapeutic environment for young people struggling with mental health challenges.”

Nationwide, young adults are struggling. In a recent poll of the Harris Polling Group and Kumanu of 1700 adults ages 18-24, 70% reported being moderately or severely depressed. Suicide is the leading cause of death for youth and young adults in the State of Michigan.

Garrett’s Space was founded in 2019 by Julie and Scott Halpert after they lost their son, Garrett, to suicide. Through this experience, they saw the huge gaps in treatment options for young adults struggling with mental health challenges.

The residential center will have a non-medical feel. Garrett’s Space plans to provide healing programming and activities, including support groups with peers, yoga, meditation and art to improve mental health, promote connections and resiliency, and reduce suicides among young adults. “We believe a space like this, which will be immersed in nature, could have helped Garrett, and we want to provide this important option to the many young adults who need it,” said Scott Halpert.

Garrett’s Space has a 76-acre property under contract in Superior Township, with a plan to close in the spring when the rezoning process is further along. The property includes a beautiful home that will be transitioned quickly for in-person programming and offices. When the property acquisition is complete, Garrett’s Space will build a residential center for short-term stays and further develop the grounds to support other holistic treatment options.

Since April 2021, the organization has offered professionally facilitated weekly support groups for young adults. Participants benefit from guided discussions, peer support, and movement and breathing exercises.

“We’re so grateful to Congresswoman Dingell and her team for leading the effort to secure this funding,” said Scott Halpert. “It will be an important building block as Garrett’s Space works to provide hope, healing, and connections for young adults with significant mental health challenges.”

To learn more about Garrett’s Space and our plans please visit: https://www.garrettsspace.org/.