August 02, 2022

Columbia, S.C., August 2, 2022 – The Leon Levine Foundation (TLLF) has generously awarded The Mental Illness Recovery Center, Inc. (Mirci) a $75,000 general operating grant. The funds will support Mirci’s wraparound care that helps people in the Midlands of South Carolina navigate the emotional uncertainty of mental illness. Through an array of behavioral and psychiatric healthcare services, homeless outreach programs, benefits assistance and affordable housing options, Mirci helps people find a way forward when life is at an impasse.

Mirci operates a youth drop-in center, an adult outreach center and street outreach teams that help people experiencing homelessness, a 10-resident transitional home for at-risk youth, and a mental health clinic offering in-home, community-based healthcare and support. "Mirci is an integral part of the region's nonprofit community,” said TLLF President Tom Lawrence. “Not only is the organization creating pathways to recovery, it is also helping clients pursue long-term self-sufficiency. We're proud to partner with Mirci as it provides thoughtful care coordination, quality mental health care, and permanent supportive housing. The need for these services is great, but with Mirci hard at work, we know the stories of hope are even greater."

Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, The Leon Levine Foundation creates pathways to self-sufficiency, champions strategies for permanent change and facilitates opportunities for growth. Leon Levine, founder and chairman emeritus of Family Dollar Stores, Inc., established The Foundation in 1980 to support programs and organizations that improve the human condition through investments in education, healthcare, human services and Jewish values. The Foundation invests in nonprofits across North Carolina and South Carolina with strong leadership, a track record of success, and a plan for financial sustainability. “We’re thrilled for the continued partnership with TLLF,” said Mirci Executive Director Julie Ann Avin. “Most funding sources support a specific program, but The Leon Levine Foundation’s grant provides general operating support which is very valuable to us. Over the past several years, TLLF has been instrumental to the continuation of Mirci’s ability to provide evidence based mental health care and housing with supportive services.”