Tomorrow Morning: Ford, Local Organizations to Hold Press Conference and Mental Health Fair at Michele Clark Magnet High School

CHICAGO – State Rep. La Shawn K. Ford, D-Chicago, will join area organizations to kick off a scholarship fund and a day of mental health engagement at a press conference scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 2 at 8:30 a.m. at Michele Clark Magnet High School, located at 5101 W. Harrison St. in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood.

“It’s clear that we must invest in the mental health of all residents, but especially high school-aged teens who experience tremendous stress at this point of their life,” Ford said. “The students of Michele Clark Magnet High School have been through a lot, losing fellow classmates to violence and experiencing challenges nobody should have to endure. We must never forget Kevin Davis and Kierra Moore, who left us far too soon.”

Following the 8:30 a.m. press conference, students at Michele Clark Magnet High School will have private access to conversations on behavioral health with guest speakers, interactive classes and more.

The scholarship drive, which Ford will highlight, is collecting money to encourage and assist the school’s graduating class – which consists of 119 students – to further themselves through attending college or engaging some form of secondary trade. Raised money will go toward helping with college expenses and needs.

From 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., a community resource fair with a focus on mental health will be open and available to the public.

“Resource fairs are important at reducing stigma and increasing access to care that can significantly improve peoples’ lives,” Ford said. “This event represents community leaders coming together to bring support and resources to Black students hit hard by homicides and poverty. I am appreciative of all the partners participating in this event, and I’m excited to see the positive impact it will have.”