Members urge funding stability for Top Clubhouse at budget hearing

During a recent budget hearing held by the City of New York, community members voiced urgent concerns about the future of vital support services, particularly focusing on the funding for mental health clubhouses. Charles De San Pedro Junior, a dedicated member of Top Clubhouse, passionately advocated for the baselining of funding to ensure the clubhouse's stability. He expressed the emotional toll that uncertainty about funding has taken on him and his fellow members, emphasizing that Top Clubhouse is more than just a facility; it is a "home away from home" where individuals find support, community, and opportunities for personal growth.

De San Pedro highlighted the importance of Top Clubhouse in his life, sharing how it has helped him secure employment and foster meaningful connections. His heartfelt testimony underscored the need for consistent funding to alleviate the stress of potential closures, which could disrupt the lives of many who rely on such spaces for mental health support.

Wynn Peri Sami, director of external affairs at Goddard Riverside, also addressed the committee, representing a settlement house that serves 20,000 New Yorkers annually. Sami thanked the council members for their efforts and reiterated the importance of continued support for community services that play a crucial role in the lives of residents.

The discussions at the hearing reflect a growing concern among community members about the sustainability of mental health resources in New York City. As the city prepares its FY26 Executive Budget, the testimonies from individuals like De San Pedro and organizations like Goddard Riverside highlight the critical need for reliable funding to ensure that essential services remain available to those who depend on them.

As the budget process moves forward, the voices of community members will be vital in shaping decisions that impact the well-being of countless New Yorkers. The call for baselined funding for mental health services is not just a plea for financial support; it is a call to recognize the importance of community and the role these services play in fostering resilience and recovery among residents.