San Francisco — In its 14th year, the “APA Gives Back” program provides an opportunity for the American Psychiatric Association (APA), its members, and Annual Meeting attendees to support a community organization in the city where the Annual Meeting is held. Today, the APA presented a donation of $27,176 to Homeless Children’s Network (HCN).

Since 1992, HCN has collaborated with over 52 housing agencies to provide continuity and stability for the homeless population in San Francisco, including families with children ages 0-25 and expectant parents. Annually, HCN serves more than 2,400 individuals experiencing homelessness, who have formerly experienced homelessness or are at risk of it.

HCN offers security and reliability for children, youth, and families to improve their mental health and functioning, develop coping skills, improve relationships with family members, and facilitate connections with educational programs, peers, and community.

“We are so pleased to support the Homeless Children’s Network through APA Gives Back,” said APA President Rebecca W. Brendel, M.D., J.D. “Their work, especially as it impacts the mental health of young people experiencing homelessness in San Francisco, makes such a positive difference in thousands of people’s lives.”

HCN aims to improve behavioral health outcomes for the population it serves with an intentional focus on Black/African American individuals and families in San Francisco, addressing the historical legacy of intergenerational racism, inequity, and trauma within the community. While supporting individuals and families of all backgrounds, HCN places a specific emphasis on passionately and unconditionally affirming Blackness.

“For every person we see on the street, there are at least 10 families with children we don’t see. Homeless Children Network will reach and support each child and parent,” said Executive Director April Silas, Ph.D. “We thank APA and each and every one who has supported our organization in any way.”

Contributions may be made during the registration process through APA’s Annual Meeting registration portal. If you have already registered and would like to donate, you can do so by logging into the Registration Resource Center and selecting “Upgrade.” APA matches member/attendee donations dollar for dollar.

About Homeless Children’s Network

The mission of Homeless Children’s Network (HCN) is to decrease the trauma of homelessness and domestic violence for children, youth, and families; to empower families; and to increase the effectiveness of collaborative efforts among service providers to end homelessness and poverty. Learn more at hcnkids.org.

American Psychiatric Association

The American Psychiatric Association, founded in 1844, is the oldest medical association in the country. The APA is also the largest psychiatric association in the world with more than 38,000 physician members specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and research of mental illnesses. APA’s vision is to ensure access to quality psychiatric diagnosis and treatment. For more information, please visit www.psychiatry.org.