Celebrating a Year of Growth and Community at SACMHA

It seems like just yesterday that the Sheffield African Caribbean Mental Health Association (SACMHA) moved to the SACMHA Campus at Breinburg Court. This space has quickly become a hub of activity and growth, and while future expansions are anticipated, today marks the celebration of its first anniversary at this location.

The launch event, vividly remembered by attendees, included representatives from Arches Housing who shared their plans and partnership with SACMHA. Over the past year, SACMHA has achieved what many might expect to see in a five-year plan. The team has worked tirelessly with residents to ensure all housing spaces are utilised, setting the stage for necessary expansions.

Since moving to Breinburg Court, the SACMHA team has welcomed new additions. Michaela Q. , the Director of Operations/Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Hawa Yatera, the Peer Support Coordinator, and Morva Grey, the Engagement Manager for the Black Elders Project, have joined the dedicated team that tirelessly promotes SACMHA's mission: championing mental health in marginalized communities. While inclusive, the focus on the African Caribbean community remains clear, reflecting SACMHA's name and purpose. Historically, this community has faced higher incarceration rates, heavy-handed policing, and over-medication in mental institutions. SACMHA exists to combat these injustices, and although progress has been made, much work remains.

On Wednesday, July 24, 2024, SACMHA marked this milestone with a celebration centred around food. As the saying goes, "There is no love so sincere as the love for food," and the day's theme was indeed a celebration of food. Communities came together, showcasing their culinary specialities. The abundance of food was reminiscent of the biblical story of feeding the 5,000, except there was no need for a miracle here—the food was plentiful from the start. David Bussue , the Chief Executive Officer of SACMHA, humorously reminded everyone that it was a taster session, not an eat-fest. Bussue also apologised to Sheffield City Council leader Councillor Tom Hunt, who was slated to give the opening speech for the Food Festival. However, the abundance of food turned it into a joyous feast, with plates overflowing with rice and peas, pasta, macaroni and cheese, chicken, and more.

Food is often the foundation of good relationships. Engaging with people over a meal allows them to show their best selves. The day was a testament to this, as people ate, shared, and connected. Despite some Campus residents being unable to join due to health challenges, the day was marked by a stress-free, joyous atmosphere. DJ Infa provided a diverse playlist; it was heartwarming to see people tapping their feet and moving to the music.

The highlight for many was the opportunity to sit and talk, fostering connections that might lead to solutions for life's challenges. It’s in these simple, heartfelt conversations that answers are often found.

This celebration reminded everyone of the incredible journey with SACMHA, working to improve the mental well-being of the Sheffield community. SACMHA stands as one of the last bastions of society, serving as a beacon and a reference point. It looks after the elderly, not just mentally but physically, through partnerships with organizations like the NHS, universities, and the Arches Project, providing housing infrastructure for clients. These collaborations have been invaluable, offering safe spaces for respite and recovery.

The event also saw participation from other organizations like the Weston Park Cancer Charity, which brought their bus along, highlighting the community's support. The unity and love within Sheffield are undeniable, which is why SACMHA's supporters have remained committed for so long. The day was a testament to the strength and solidarity of the community, and many look forward to future celebrations.