Patrick P. Lee Foundation

05/29/2026

As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, we recognize the importance of supporting mental health across all stages of life—including for the students we serve.

In 2022, the Foundation invested in campus-based mental health initiatives, partnering with SUNY Niagara, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and Saint Louis University to expand access to care and strengthen support systems for students.

Through nearly $200,000 in funding, these efforts help ensure students—including Lee Scholars—have access to the resources they need to navigate challenges and succeed.

This work reflects our commitment to both of our focus areas—mental health and education—and reinforces the importance of ongoing support, awareness, and access to care.

We remain committed to raising awareness about mental health and strengthening access to care across our communities.

05/26/2026

Access to responsive, high-quality mental health support is critical for our community. We are proud to partner with Crisis Services in strengthening crisis response capacity across Western New York.

For more than five decades, Crisis Services has served as Erie County’s only 24-hour crisis center and community resource, providing a vital lifeline for individuals in times of acute need.

05/25/2026

05/20/2026

Meaningful change in mental health care is driven by those closest to the work.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re featuring insights from our partners - like Melinda DuBois, Executive Director of Mental Health Advocates of Western New York.

A valued member of the Crisis to Care Collaborative, MHAWNY is making a difference in our community through its Mental Health Helpline, Family Support services, and education programs. Visit mhawny.org to learn more.

05/18/2026

Last week, we were honored to receive the “Making a Significant Difference in Community Safety” award from the Erie County Law Enforcement Foundation, Inc.

A special congratulations as well to our Executive Director, Jane Mogavero, for being recognized for her leadership of the Collaborative.

This recognition reflects the power of partnership and a shared commitment to improving behavioral health crisis response across Erie County. Thank you to our Crisis to Care partners: Erie County Sheriff's Office , Buffalo Police Department , Cheektowaga Police Department , West Seneca Police Department , Erie County Central Police Services, and Hilbert College for your continued collaboration and dedication to this work.

Together, we are building a stronger and more responsive system of care for our community.

05/13/2026

We are proud to recognize the 2026 Distinguished Lee Scholars.

Anthony Bloore (2-Year) and Nicholas Merante (4-Year) were selected for their outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to their fields.

Anthony, a Physical Therapist Assistant major at Onondaga Community College, was recognized for his dedication to patient care and his ability to connect with and support those he serves.

Nicholas, an Electrical Engineering major with a minor in Computer Science at Rochester Institute of Technology, distinguished himself through exceptional academic performance and leadership, including his role as Electrical Lead of RIT’s Electric Vehicle Team.

We congratulate Anthony and Nicholas on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to their continued success.

05/11/2026

We always enjoy seeing our partners recognized for their work in the community. It was especially fun to see this article featuring Scott Karaszewski, chief EMS officer of AMR Western New York, and his trusted partner Rosco, a certified therapy dog. (photo J. Viera). Our thanks to the team at AMR and, of course, Rosco for their commitment to the residents of Buffalo.

Scott Karaszewski, chief EMS officer of AMR Western New York, sits with his partner Rosco, a certified therapy dog. Rosco, a 5-year-old goldendoodle, supports 350 EMTs, paramedics, dispatchers and staff members who serve Erie and Niagara counties. (Photo by Joed Viera/Buffalo News)

05/06/2026

Have you heard of the Crisis to Care Collaborative?

It’s a first-of-its kind initiative to transform how Erie County responds to behavioral health crises. The initiative brings together more than 30 stakeholders representing law enforcement, first responders, health and behavioral health providers, and people with lived experience.

During Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re highlighting efforts that strengthen how individuals in crisis are supported—ensuring the right response at the right time.

Follow along this month as we share more about the partners and progress behind this work. To learn more visit: crisistocare.org