Jubilee Healing Farm Receives Grant from American Psychiatric Association Foundation

Funding will benefit the development and implementation of the Peer Outdoor Education for Mental Health (POEM) program to support Black college students’ mental health.

 Hillsborough, NC — Jubilee Healing Farm, an organization dedicated to promoting mental health and well-being, is a recipient of the MOORE Equity in Mental Health Community Grant from the American Psychiatric Association Foundation and American Psychiatric Association. The $10,000 award, which will be allocated over a two-year period, is a testament to Jubilee Healing Farm’s commitment to addressing mental health disparities.

 This funding will support the development and implementation of the Peer Outdoor Education for Mental Health (POEM) program. POEM is an innovative initiative that blends peer support specialist training with outdoor leadership skills. This unique approach is designed to empower Black college students, providing them with the tools and experiences necessary to thrive both personally and as future leaders in mental health advocacy.

 "The MOORE Equity Grant is not just a funding boost – it's a recognition of the urgent need to address mental health care disparities in our communities," said Nora Dennis MD, MSPH, Founder and President. "Through POEM, we aim to create a supportive and inclusive environment where Black students can gain valuable skills, connect with peers, and find healing in nature."

 POEM's curriculum will encompass a range of activities within the context of peer support specialist training, from Earth skills to workshops on mental health topics. This hands-on approach is expected to have a profound impact on the participants, fostering resilience, leadership, and a deeper understanding of mental health challenges and solutions.

 Jubilee Healing Farm extends its heartfelt thanks to the American Psychiatric Association Foundation for their support of the POEM program. This grant marks a significant step forward in Jubilee’s ongoing efforts to create inclusive, effective, and sustainable mental health support systems.

 For more information about Jubilee Healing Farm and the POEM program, please contact Dr. Nora Dennis at jubileehealingfarm@gmail.com.