Hundreds Expected for 2011 Children's Mental Health Day in Annapolis, Tuesday, Feb. 8

COLUMBIA, MD, February 03, 2011 (Press-News.org) Hundreds of Maryland family members eager to protect children's mental health programs are expected at the General Assembly on Tuesday, Feb. 8, 2011 for the 11th Annual Children's Mental Health Day in Annapolis. The free event is sponsored by the non-profit Maryland Coalition of Families for Children's Mental Health (MCF), the voice of families caring for a child with mental health needs. Activities will start in the Miller Senate Office Building, Rooms 1 and 2 West, 11 Bladen St., Annapolis, MD.

Since 2000, MCF's Children's Mental Health Day in Annapolis has brought together legislators, families, youth, policymakers and service providers to share information about current services and future prospects for those programs. All members of the General Assembly, Gov. Martin O'Malley and Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown have been invited to the 2011 event.

"In challenging times, families are understandably concerned about the future of their children's mental health services," says MCF Executive Director Jane Walker. "We are not strangers to challenges, and there is strength in numbers. We want to make sure that our legislators and policymakers know the depth of our support for these programs."

Children's Mental Health Day in Annapolis kicks off with a 9:15 a.m. briefing with legislators and state agency representatives. A special program for youth is planned this year with a guided tour of the State Capital and an opportunity to observe the General Assembly in session. Family members have scheduled appointments with their Senators and Delegates after the briefing.

Activities at Children's Mental Health Day in Annapolis are free, advance registration is required. To register or for more information, contact MCF at 410.730.8267, 888.607.3637 or info@mdcoalition.org.