FORT MYERS, Fla. — Kids’ Minds Matter has received a $225,000 multi-year grant from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation to sustain and expand its Mental Health Navigator Program, which supports children and families across Southwest Florida struggling with behavioral and mental health challenges.
The funding, to be distributed over three years beginning in 2026, ensures ongoing care for vulnerable families through a unique peer-navigation model that has shown measurable success since its launch in 2020.
The Mental Health Navigator Program was originally established with a leadership gift from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation and has since grown into a comprehensive regional initiative. Currently, 10 trained navigators are embedded in public schools, pediatric practices, and community organizations throughout the region.
“These navigators are making a real difference in people’s lives,” said Farren Williams, a navigator based at Golisano Children’s Hospital. “Helping families overcome challenges and strengthen their relationships is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work.”
Unlike therapists, mental health navigators are caregivers with lived experience supporting individuals with serious emotional or behavioral conditions. They offer peer mentorship, resource referrals, and personalized guidance to help families navigate the often-confusing mental health system. In addition to mental health support, navigators assist with essential needs such as food, housing, and financial resources.
Since its inception, the program has assisted more than 564 children and 846 individuals in total. In just the last two fiscal quarters alone, navigators supported 158 children across 79 families. The most common issues addressed include ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and aggressive behaviors.
On average, families remain in the program for approximately 254 days — highlighting the intensive and sustained support provided. Outcomes for participating families have been significant:
- School attendance improved by 54%.
- Academic performance rose by an average of two grade levels.
- Baker Act hospitalizations dropped by 50%.
- Classroom behavioral disruptions declined sharply.
Despite increasing demand, which has resulted in a constant waitlist, the program has demonstrated a consistent positive impact on the families it serves.
“Addressing youth mental health is critical to building healthier communities,” said Kevin Johnson, president and CEO of Suncoast Credit Union. “This program aligns with our mission, and we’re proud to support efforts that help families gain a deeper understanding of mental health and access the support they need.”
The latest grant brings Suncoast Credit Union’s total investment in Lee Health’s initiatives, including Kids’ Minds Matter, to nearly $3 million.
Kids’ Minds Matter is a collaboration between Lee Health and Golisano Children’s Hospital aimed at transforming mental and behavioral health care for children and families across Southwest Florida.
