Diakon Family Life Services Receives Pearls with a Passion Grant to Expand Student Crisis Intervention in Lycoming County

Williamsport, PA (Monday May 19, 2025)

Diakon Family Life Services is pleased to announce it has been awarded a Pearls with a Passion grant through the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania. This generous funding will help expand student crisis intervention programs throughout Lycoming County, providing vital mental health support to children and youth in need.

With growing demand for accessible behavioral health services, this grant allows Diakon to increase its capacity to respond quickly and compassionately to students experiencing emotional or psychological crises. Services will include in-school assessments, short-term counseling, and referrals to longer-term care when needed.

“We are incredibly grateful for this grant, which will make a real difference in the lives of young people facing mental health challenges,” said Laurel Spencer, Vice President of Diakon Family Life Services Operations, who attended the reception on behalf of Diakon and is pictured second from the left with other grant recipients. “This support allows us to be there in the moment students need us most—providing immediate care, connection, and hope.”

Pearls with a Passion is part of the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania and has awarded over $1 million in grants since its founding.

This new support builds on Diakon’s ongoing efforts to promote mental wellness and strengthen families across the region.

To learn more about Diakon Family Life Services or to access support, visit our webpage: https://www.diakon.org/family-life-services/