✨We're happy to share a recent success story! ✨ Cece has never hidden her journey with mental health. Raised by an abusive parent and placed in foster care, she spent much of her early life trying to find her “chosen family” in all the wrong places. That path led to two convictions—but it wasn’t the end of her story. Cece’s life changed when she found out she was pregnant. Determined to give her child a better life, she entered rehab and has now been sober for 19 years. She’s stayed committed to recovery, meeting regularly with her therapist and psychiatrist. Cece worked as a security guard for many years before enrolling in a pharmacy tech program to advance her career. But despite her hard work, she feared that her criminal record would keep doors closed after graduation. Cece’s therapist then referred her to Mental Health Advocacy Services for free legal assistance. An MHAS attorney reviewed Cece’s case and filed two expungement petitions—both of which were recently granted. Now, Cece is one step closer to achieving her professional goals. Above all, Cece is most excited to be a role model for her son. If you would like to support folks like Cece, please consider making a donation here: https://mhas-la.networkforgood.com/projects/250613-2025-mental-health-awareness-month (fb)

We're excited to share a recent success with you today! After years of experiencing homelessness, Abraham - a veteran living with multiple mental health disabilities - found a supportive housing unit with the help from our partners at Mental Health America of Los Angeles. But his joy was cut short when, a few days later, Abraham received a housing denial notice due to alleged criminal history. Abraham was quickly referred to Mental Health Advocacy Services through our Veterans Project. An MHAS attorney reviewed Abraham’s case and wrote to the housing provider arguing that denying Abraham the supportive housing unit violated fair housing laws. MHAS successfully appealed the housing denial, showing that the alleged criminal history was not a proper basis for denial, and Abraham was approved for the unit. Last month, Abraham called MHAS to share that he had officially moved in. He also had a very unique request: He asked that MHAS send him a printed copy of the appeal letter that had been written on his behalf so that he could frame and display it in his new home. Please consider making a donation to support veterans like Abraham: https://mhas-la.networkforgood.com/projects/250613-2025-mental-health-awareness-month (fb)