A Beacon Rekindled: Kindred Place Responds to Soaring Mental Health Needs Across Memphis

Since reopening its doors on January 27, 2025, Kindred Place has quickly re-established itself as a vital refuge for families and individuals in the Memphis metro area. In just three months, 153 new clients have entered into care—31 in February, 65 in March, and 57 in April. These numbers are more than just figures. They represent lives touched, stability restored, and healing begun.

“We knew the need for trauma-informed care was urgent,” said Vincent J. McCaskill, President and CEO of SchoolSeed Foundation, which now governs Kindred Place. “But the pace and depth of demand have reaffirmed our belief that Memphis needs this work. Kindred Place is more than a building—it’s a promise to our community.”

The diversity of those served highlights just how universal the need for mental health support is. From February to April, the largest group of clients were adults between the ages of 31 and 40—43 people in total—followed by young adults ages 19 to 30 and adults ages 41 to 50. Yet children and teens are also coming through the doors in increasing numbers. In April alone, 28% of new clients were under the age of 18, including 13 clients ages 8–12 and 15 teens ages 13–18. These numbers point to the generational reach of Kindred Place’s services.

“Our team is seeing families in distress, children with untreated trauma, and adults battling anxiety, domestic violence, and economic stress,” said Tammy Borkcom, Clinical Coordinator. “But we’re also seeing breakthroughs. We’re seeing children smile again. We’re seeing parents gain tools to rebuild their homes with hope and stability.”

Kindred Place offers individual counseling, parenting education, trauma recovery, and support groups—all delivered by licensed clinicians who understand the unique challenges our community faces. Every client undergoes a personalized intake process, ensuring that services are tailored to their age, background, and mental health needs.

“Each client matters deeply to us,” said Dr. Sharon Griffin, Executive Director of Program Implementation. “We’re not rushing people through a system—we’re walking with them through a journey. The numbers reflect not just a growing need, but the trust our city is placing in us to be part of their healing.”

This is just the beginning. With growing demand and a waitlist forming, Kindred Place is actively working to expand its staff and services. But this work cannot happen alone.

You can help. Whether through a donation, a referral, or simply sharing our message, your support ensures that no one is turned away. The stories of healing are still being written—and with your help, they will continue.

Kindred Place: Your Healing Starts Here.