Gwinnett County's Mental Health Fair Connects Hundreds to Critical Resources

The Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office held its fifth annual Community Mental Health Awareness Fair on Saturday in Lawrenceville. The event brought together hundreds of residents with local support services in a welcoming setting. Organisers aimed to raise awareness and connect people with vital mental health resources.

The fair featured over 35 community partners offering guidance on counselling, housing, medical care, and insurance support. Attendees could also learn about mental health treatment options while enjoying food, entertainment, and interactions with local law enforcement.

Major Shakira Maldonado, who leads the sheriff’s Mental Health Task Force, explained that the event was designed to help residents understand available services. She encouraged people to seek support before crises escalate. Maldonado, a licensed therapist, also highlighted the task force’s role in de-escalation and collaboration with mental health professionals. The fair is part of a wider effort by the sheriff’s office to address mental health challenges early. By providing access to resources, the initiative aims to reduce the number of people entering the criminal justice system due to unmet mental health needs. For immediate help, residents can call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.

The event drew strong attendance, showing growing interest in mental health support across Gwinnett County. With ongoing efforts from law enforcement and community partners, residents now have clearer pathways to access care and assistance.