Be Strong Expands Support for Youth and Families in Crisis During Summer Break

As the school year comes to an end and summer vacation begins, a significant number of students across the nation find themselves without essential support services that are typically accessible during the school year. This seasonal gap poses challenges for many young individuals and their families, especially when it comes to mental, emotional, and relational well-being. In response, Be Strong, a prominent charity focused on improving mental health, is stepping up its efforts to bridge this gap, ensuring that help and resources remain available when they are needed most.

For more than a decade, Be Strong has been pivotal in enhancing the mental and emotional health of youth by connecting them and their families with resources and support networks. This summer, they are leveraging innovative tools, such as the Be Strong App, to provide easy access to mental health support, crisis intervention, food assistance, housing resources, and more. Available at no cost, the app aims to empower users to identify their needs and navigate them effectively.

In the first four months of 2026, 15,700 individuals accessed Be Strong's services — a clear indicator of the rising demand for support. With an increasing number of young people reaching out for help, the organization recognizes that providing access to reliable resources is crucial. Dr. Pamela Morris-Perez, an esteemed professor of applied psychology at NYU and a member of Be Strong's advisory board, highlighted the importance of making mental health resources readily available. "Adolescents struggling with mental health need quick, accessible care to reduce risks and avert crises," she stated, emphasizing the urgency of Be Strong’s mission.

This summer, the Never Alone Campaign and its associated podcast, the Never Alone Series, are also receiving renewed attention. The newly launched second season, hosted by Jesula Jeannot and Ashleigh Cromer, delves into various critical topics ranging from resilience and leadership to personal identity and mental health. This series emphasizes that seeking help is a vital form of strength and serves to normalize conversations around mental health challenges.

Be Strong's collaborative efforts are supported by partners, including Logitech G, which aims to amplify these critical discussions within communities. Erin Chin, the Global Head of Brand Marketing at Logitech G, shared her commitment to this cause, stating that fostering genuine connections helps break down the stigma around mental health issues.

In addition to enhancing access through technology, Be Strong's partnership with BetterHelp seeks to streamline the process for individuals seeking professional support. This collaboration aims to reduce barriers significantly, ensuring that more individuals can navigate their mental health challenges effectively. Ciara Kelly, Program Manager of Social Impact at BetterHelp, emphasized that the need for connections to professional help is increasingly important in today's society, particularly among Gen Z.

Several corporations and organizations, such as Hormel Foods, are also contributing to Be Strong’s mission by enhancing community well-being through resource allocation and leadership opportunities. Moreover, in an exciting new development, Be Strong is set to introduce the Never Alone Workplace Impact Awards. These awards will recognize outstanding workplaces that prioritize employees' mental health and foster supportive environments.

As summer unfolds and the struggle for critical resources continues, Be Strong remains vigilant and committed to ensuring that help is readily available. Their message is clear: While school may be out for summer, the fight against mental health challenges does not pause. Individuals and families are encouraged to utilize the Be Strong App as a trusted resource for connecting to services that can help maintain well-being during these transitional months.

By embracing innovative solutions, forming strong partnerships, and prioritizing mental health dialogues, Be Strong reinforces the idea that no individual should face their struggles alone. The organization invites everyone—corporations, community leaders, and individuals—to contribute to this important initiative, enhancing access to care and support, encouraging open conversations about mental health, and fostering environments where no one feels isolated in their struggles. Together, we can work toward a future where individuals know they are never alone on their journey to healing.