December 18, 2023

Columbia, S.C. – The Leon Levine Foundation awarded Mirci $300,000 to be dispersed over three years to support its behavioral healthcare and supportive housing for vulnerable members of the community with mental health concerns, many of whom have also experienced homelessness.

The Charlotte, N.C.-based Foundation “intends to create pathways to self-sufficiency, champion strategies for permanent change, and facilitate opportunities for growth.”

Mirci accomplishes these goals through benefits assistance, which increases an individual’s access to income and healthcare; housing services, which increases an individual’s stability and overall wellbeing; and accredited behavioral healthcare, which is patient-oriented and maintains a low client-to-staff ratio.

“We are elated to be awarded a three-year grant from The Leon Levine Foundation to support Mirci’s work upholding mental health across the Midlands,” Mirci CEO Julie Ann Avin said. “As we are seeing a 25% increase in anxiety and depression post-pandemic, these funds will allow Mirci to provide behavioral healthcare to more individuals.”

The Foundation’s long-time support has helped people get back on their feet and improve their physical and mental health, their independence, and their ability to pursue goals they may have had to put aside due to challenges with housing or mental health.

Mental Illness Recovery Center, Inc. (Mirci) provides behavioral healthcare, outreach services and affordable housing for people who are vulnerable to the adverse consequences of mental illness. MIRCI’s vision is to be the place where people can find a way forward. It is a 501(c)3 nonprofit.

Established in 1980 by Leon Levine (Founder and Former Chairman of Family Dollar Stores, Inc.), The Leon Levine Foundation supports programs and organizations that align with its four core mission areas: education, healthcare, human services, and Jewish values. Based in Charlotte, N.C., 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. Through its investments, the Foundation intends to create pathways to self-sufficiency, champion strategies for permanent change, and facilitate opportunities for growth.