Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Relocation of Children's Acute Partial Hospitalization Program

Erie, PA (July 23, 2026)- Today, Barber National Institute celebrated the culmination of a $2.2 million project with a ceremonial ribbon cutting at its new children's acute partial hospitalization program, 1319 Sassafras Street in Erie, Pa. The program provides short-term intensive behavioral health treatment for children and adolescents experiencing a mental health crisis, helping them stabilize, build coping skills and return safely to home, school and community while reducing the need for inpatient hospitalization or residential placement.

As children's behavioral health needs continue to grow, Barber National Institute is strengthening its focus on children with intellectual disabilities and autism, returning to the core of its mission and filling a critical gap in the region as the only provider of acute partial hospitalization services for this population of children.

"Our new location provides a bright, welcoming environment to promote healing, learning, and connection while helping children stay engaged with their families, schools and communities," said Katheryn Meyers, children's acute partial administrative manager. "While we are proud of this facility, the real heart of this program is our staff. Their care, patience, professionalism and belief in every child have a lasting impact on our families."

The project was made possible through Pennsylvania's Neighborhood Assistance Program tax credit and the shared commitment of Barber National Institute's board of directors, elected officials, community partners and donors to the Dr. Gertrude A. Barber Foundation. Project support included the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, State Senator Dan Laughlin, State Representatives Bob Merski and Pat Harkins, business partners and school districts that recognized the continued need for specialized behavioral health services for children in the community.

Corporate partners who leveraged the Neighborhood Assistance Program tax credit to support the project included Erie Insurance Group, UPMC Health Plan, Erie Stayer Company, Northwest Bank, DeSantis Solutions and Knox Law. Their early investment also helped leverage an additional $100,000 Shaping Tomorrow grant from the Erie Community Foundation.

Following the ribbon cutting, guests were invited to tour the new space and learn how the program will support children, families, schools, and the broader community.

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About Barber National Institute

Barber National Institute is guided by compassion, innovation, and an unshakeable belief in human potential. We work every day to help make dreams come true for people of all abilities. Founded in 1952 by Dr. Gertrude A. Barber, we have grown from a single classroom into a comprehensive network of services for 5,400 adults and children with intellectual disabilities, autism, and behavioral health challenges. With locations in Bedford, Erie, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Somerset, and Warren, we empower children, adults, and families through education, residential options, employment, and community programs. We carry forward Dr. Barber's legacy and vision for a world where everyone belongs and lives to their fullest potential.