The Well Community: A place to belong
People soon become thirsty again after drinking water. But the water I give takes away thirst altogether. It becomes a well of water within, giving life.
Jesus (from the Gospel of John)
Those who struggle with mental illnesses are thirsty for acceptance, support and meaningful relationships. Offering hope and healing through best-practice interventions, friendships and the power of faith, the Well Community provides a place to belong. Founded in 2002, the Well is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. While it started as a simple, church outreach to a handful of people, the Well has grown into a flourishing, significant ministry among adults recovering from serious mental illnesses. The Well’s philosophy of care, relational engagement and holistic care combine to make a significant impact upon those we are called to serve.
Critical Need:
Mental illnesses are highly prevalent, life-threatening diseases that affect millions of people all around the world. In fact, 1 in 5 adults in the U.S.—43.8 million, or 18.5%—experiences a mental illness in a given year.
One in 17 (about 13.6 million) live with a serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, major depression or bipolar disorder. Approximately 60 percent of adults and almost one-half of youth ages 8 to 15 with a mental illness received no mental health services in the previous year. Serious mental illness costs America $193.2 billion in lost earnings per year. (National Alliance on Mental Illness – NAMI).
Increasing Demand:
Over the the years, the number of individuals requiring mental health treatment in Dallas, TX has increased while funding for mental health services only modestly increased. Dallas MetroCare, a local agency, serves over 50,000 individuals a year, reflecting the skyrocketing demand for mental health programs in our community.
People in Pain:
The Well Community cares for and serves those with the profound physical, emotional and spiritual needs that are so prevalent when dealing with mental disorders. Through this holistic approach, the Well provides compassionate programs and services. The organization creates a place of belonging and acceptance for individuals who are otherwise isolated and lonely; and for those who have been stigmatized and forgotten by society—in some cases, even by “people of faith.” Perhaps, though, the most important thing we offer to those we serve is friendship.
For a description of the Well’s services and programming click here.
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me … Truly I tell you, whatever you did for the least of these, you did for me.