Guidance/Care Center Holds Groundbreaking for The Heron, The Only Assisted Living Facility for Mental Health in Monroe County

‘The Heron’ to be renovated in service of those in need of Mental Health Housing 

(Marathon, FL) The Guidance/Care Center broke ground on the long-anticipated rebuild project at The Heron, the only state-licensed Assisted Living Facility (ALF) with a Limited Mental Health License in Monroe County. This renovation will significantly enhance the living conditions and services for adults with chronic and persistent mental illness in the Florida Keys, marking a pivotal moment in the community’s commitment to mental health care.

The Heron, approaching its 37th year, has been a cornerstone of support, offering permanent housing and comprehensive supportive services to Monroe County adults in a comfortable, home environment. Serving 16 adults and centrally located in Marathon, The Heron has been an essential sanctuary for individuals struggling with severe mental health while allowing them to still be near their families.

Speakers at the groundbreaking ceremony included Maureen Dunleavy, Senior Vice President of the Guidance/Care Center; Clare Condra, Administrator of The Heron; Sherry Reed, from the Community Action Council; Jim Mooney, State Representative; Robyn Still, Mayor of Marathon; Frank Rabbito, Chief Operations Officer for the Florida Region, WestCare; and David Rice, Monroe County Commissioner. These leaders highlighted the significant impact the new facility will have on the community, emphasizing the importance of expanding housing and supportive services for residents in need.

Join our efforts through the Guidance/Care Center for The Heron! We invite all community members, stakeholders, and supporters to join us in this transformative project. Your contributions will help ensure affordable, permanent mental health housing and to provide essential services to those who need it most. For more information on how you can contribute, please contact:

Maureen Dunleavy, Regional Senior Vice President

(305) 896-5964 | [email protected]

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