DECATUR, Ga. — The basketball tournament being held Saturday at the Decatur Rec Center is more than just a fun game, it has a serious message behind it.
Veronica Griffin on Channel 2 Participated in a full court press tournament aimed at raising awareness of mental health.
Lori Freeman of the DeKalb Criminal Justice Treatment Coalition says this is a cause close to her heart. One of her family members experienced a mental health crisis and the police had to be called in to help.
That's why she joined the nonprofit DCJTC to help organize tournaments and raise money.
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The funds they raise will be used to train police and assist those called upon to help in times of crisis.
“We support people who have been charged with misdemeanors. We don't want them to end up in jail when it's related to mental health and they're on the road to recovery,” Freeman said. told Mr. Griffin.
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The team is made up of police officers, judges, lawyers and others from across the Atlanta metropolitan area.
“Mental illness is real, prevalent, and on the rise. Therefore, there is a need for this court to be a resource for people who suffer from severe mental health and have faith in the criminal justice system. ,” said DeKalb Misdemeanor Mental Health Court Judge Lasia Stroud.
Most of the audience paid the $8 admission fee and came to see the fun and support the cause.
“I think it's important to make sure we take care of mental health in all aspects. It's so important. A lot of times it doesn't get the attention and it doesn't get talked about,” said supporter Sierra Ray. Ta.
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The tournament will resume on Sunday morning.
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