Mental Health Support to the Community.

In response to the shooting incident at Maplewood Park last weekend, Mayor Malik D. Evans, along with City and County leaders, held a press conference to announce three upcoming events aimed at providing mental health support to the community.

Mayor Evans emphasized the importance of not accepting destructive behavior and raising the standards of what is considered acceptable. He stated that one way to achieve this is by helping community members address the trauma caused by incidents like the shooting.

Dr. April Aycock, the Monroe County Director of Mental Health Services, expressed the County's commitment to supporting the City's efforts. The County's Forensic Intervention Team (FIT) will collaborate with the City's Person In Crisis (PIC) team and BreatheDeep, a City partner, to offer mental health services to those affected by the shooting at Maplewood Park.

Dr. Aycock highlighted the FIT's dedication to providing critical mental health support, especially during times of crisis. She acknowledged the deep scars left by the tragic incident and emphasized the duty to help heal these wounds. By partnering with the City, they believe that it aims to ensure that anyone impacted by the tragedy receives compassionate care, addressing trauma, fostering resilience, and building a stronger and more connected community.

Dr. Shirley Green, the City Commissioner of the Department of Recreation and Human Services, acknowledged the presence of many witnesses and loved ones affected by the deaths of Tyasia Manning and Phylicia Council. She acknowledged that the community will never be the same but emphasized the importance of coming together to heal the trauma caused by the incident.

The City will organize three events at City R-Centers, which will be free for Rochester residents. These events will have counselors from PIC, FIT, and BreatheDeep available to provide immediate support and connect individuals to longer-term help, as needed. The details of these events are as follows:

- Tuesday, Aug. 6, from 5-7 p.m. at Edgerton R-Center, 41 Backus St.

- Wednesday, Aug. 7, from 5-7 p.m. at Carter R-Center, 500 Carter St.

- Thursday, Aug. 8, from 5-7 p.m. at Thomas P Ryan R-Center, 530 Webster Ave.

Mayor Evans reiterated the City's commitment to not normalizing violence. While the Rochester Police Department and law enforcement partners focus on addressing the perpetrators of violence, the City, County, and community partners state they will work together to address the trauma left behind by such acts.