Governor Josh Stein visited The Smith Family Behavioral Health Urgent Care (BHUC) in Charlotte to emphasize the need for greater access to mental health services in North Carolina. During his visit, he highlighted the importance of facilities like BHUC in providing care for people experiencing crises.
“Too often, people in crisis and their families have nowhere to turn,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Facilities like this one are critical to making sure people receive care and are treated with dignity and compassion. As a state, we must build well-functioning mental health care system that keeps people healthy and safe, and the Smith Family BHUC is a great example.”
Michelle Hunt, Executive Director of the Steve Smith Foundation, stated: “When people are in crisis, they need a place they can turn to—any time of day—regardless of whether they have insurance, and with the assurance that they will be seen. With limited resources available, our community is in urgent need of mental health and substance use support. I’m proud that the Steve Smith Foundation is helping expand access to reliable behavioral health care for everyone in our community; 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year.”
The Smith Family Foundation was established by former Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith and his family. Its Behavioral Health Urgent Care facility opened in 2023 with the goal of offering immediate counseling, diagnosis, referrals, and outpatient support for those facing mental health or substance use emergencies. The center serves as an alternative to emergency rooms or incarceration for individuals undergoing such crises.
In recent years, North Carolina has made significant investments in behavioral health services. The state’s biennium budget for 2023-2025 allocated $835 million toward initiatives including mobile crisis teams, crisis receiving teams, stabilization beds for children experiencing crises, as well as programs supporting re-entry and diversion for justice-involved individuals.
Governor Stein called on lawmakers to continue supporting these investments so that progress can continue. He also stressed his commitment to developing a system focused on early intervention and expanded access while promoting public safety through treatment rather than neglect.
Additionally, Governor Stein urged the General Assembly to maintain funding for Medicaid as part of efforts to ensure ongoing access to both physical and mental health care across North Carolina.
