Touchstone Launches New Drop-In Center for Mental Health Support in Anoka County
Touchstone Mental Health has opened a welcoming new drop-in center in Anoka County, expanding its commitment to community-based mental health support. Officially launched in mid-July 2025, the Anoka Community Support Program offers a safe, supportive space for adults living with mental illness to gather, build connections, and access essential services—completely free of charge.
Funded through a grant from Anoka County, the program is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is available to all county residents who have a mental health diagnosis. No insurance or referral is required, and members can simply drop in, fill out a brief intake form, and begin participating in the program.
The center provides a warm and inclusive environment with daily programming that includes peer-led support groups, creative art therapy, writing workshops, wellness education, and social activities like bingo and community outings. Members also receive support navigating life challenges—from transportation and food access to employment and housing referrals. “We want this space to be a place where people feel safe, seen, and supported,” says Shanna McIntosh, Director of Community Mental Health Services at Touchstone.
The program also maintains strong partnerships with local providers and organizations such as Rise, Canvas Health, Allina Health, and Anoka County Human Services. Together, they help members gain access to broader mental health care, case management, and job support resources.
“We’re designing this program to respond to the real-world needs of people living in Anoka County,” says Chris Westergaard, Vice President of Clinical Services. “That means providing flexible, non-clinical supports, creating a space that feels peaceful, and offering a true sense of belonging.”
In its first weeks, the program welcomed dozens of members daily. With its growing popularity, the team plans to move into a larger, more accessible space later this year. There’s also a minivan available for group outings and support for members facing transportation barriers, especially in the more rural areas of the county.
Looking ahead, the program will host an Open House on Monday September 8, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 pm to unveil its new name, celebrate its members, and welcome service providers and neighbors alike. RSVP on Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.com/e/open-house-tickets-1538692654149?aff=oddtdtcreator
