By TERRI CASTELAZ

Staff Writer

KINGSFORD — The Forever Friendship Drop-In has moved into a new home in Suite 3 at 501 S. Carpenter Ave. in Kingsford.

The new location is at ground level, making it much easier for those who come to the site. The space also brings in a lot of natural light, which is important for anyone dealing with a mental illness, said Pat Flynn, director and certified peer support specialist.

They still are in the process of adding new things but hope the new location increases the number of people seeking their help.

The Drop-In is a peer-run organization that offers a safe, supportive and healthy environment for those dealing with mental illness. There is no psychiatrists on site.

Anyone with a past or current mental illness is welcome to come and see what the Drop-In has to offer. Individuals must provide some type of proof of treatment by showing either an appointment card from their doctor or have their health care provider sign forms available on site. They also require individuals be physically able to take care of themselves.

“Those who have been in the court system are welcome,” Flynn said. “We also encouraged veterans with mental illness to use the facility.”

He stresses that they offer a great support system. “We are here for each other and really encourages everyone to come and see for themselves the social support we offer,” he said.

Flynn will help get individuals connected to the right resources. He can assist with living issues as well, such as finding jobs, housing and other accommodations along with transportation.

“With the addition of providing transportation, we can do so much more for our members,” Flynn said.

They are able to transport those without a ride to and from the Drop-In facility.

Those in need of a ride are asked to contact Flynn the day before they plan to come to the center.

“This is to make sure I have enough time to open up the Drop-In,” Flynn said.

Acquiring the van proved crucial, Flynn added, “not only with getting those without a way here, but we are able to plan more outings.”

The Drop-In has internet access along with a computer for those who are looking for employment and seeking other resources.

Individuals are welcome to just socialize or take part in activities such as watching movies, playing video or board games, using fitness equipment and doing art projects.

Those interested in seeing what the facility has to offer are invited to come and “hang out,” Flynn said.

The Drop-In Center does have exercise equipment, as well as bicycles that any active member can lease to go on a ride.

Since the Drop-In doesn’t have money for food, they can use donations of meal or gift certificates for pizza, sandwiches or other refreshments, Flynn said.

The center first opened in the Trico building in July 2015 and soon after received its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status.

Northpointe pays for rent, utilities and any programming costs.

The center is open from 1 to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and Saturdays; it is closed Mondays, Fridays and Sundays.

For a ride or to contact Flynn at the Forever Friendship Drop-In center, call 906-828-2161.

Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 41, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.

Flynn shows Pike one of the center’s new bike helmets that can be checked out.

Terri Castelaz/Daily News photos
ABOVE, Forever Friendship Drop-In director and certified peer support specialist Pat Flynn, right, with Amy Hall, left, and Jessie Pike in front of the new Forever Friendship Drop-in site in Suite 3 at 501 S. Carpenter Ave. in Kingsford.