Over 60 years ago, a few determined volunteers resolved to answer the profound need of individuals recovering from mental illness in our community. Major achievements in psychiatric treatments and medication resulted in the annual discharge of hundreds of patients from state hospitals. Many of these individuals lacked self-care and social skills and knew little about life outside the hospital. On April 6, 1961, 22 members of the Erie Chapter of the National Council of Jewish Women launched "Stairways"; named for the staircase clients walked up to arrive at the social rehabilitation center and toward a new life.
Today, Stairways Behavioral Health is the most progressive mental health care provider in Erie, serving more than 6,000 people annually and employing more than 200 full and part-time mental health professionals. The conviction of the founders remains Stairways' mission many years later, focusing primarily on adults.
To learn more about us, visit our webpage.
