Legislative breakfast highlights workforce challenges, crisis response funding, and the need for sustained investment in community-based care
WARWICK, R.I. – Today, Thrive Behavioral Health, Rhode Island’s leading provider of comprehensive mental health and substance use disorder services and one of the state’s eight Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) welcomed federal, state, and local leaders to its annual Legislative Breakfast, bringing together policymakers and community stakeholders to discuss Rhode Island’s behavioral health needs and the policy solutions required to strengthen access to care.
The event, held at Thrive’s Warwick headquarters, featured remarks from Congressman Seth Magaziner,, Senate President Valarie Lawson, and Thrive leadership, as well as a powerful client story highlighting the real-world impact of behavioral health services.
As part of the program, Thrive honored Senator Jake Bissaillon (District 1, Providence) and Representative David Bennett (District 20, Cranston/Warwick) as its 2026 Legislators of the Year in recognition of their leadership and commitment to advancing behavioral health initiatives across Rhode Island.
“Today’s conversation reinforces that behavioral health isn’t optional – it’s an essential part of our healthcare system. And, continued collaboration with our elected leaders is critical to meeting the needs of Rhode Islanders.” said Jennifer Wheelehon, Board Chair of Thrive Behavioral Health.
During the event, Thrive leaders highlighted the organization’s growing impact as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), delivering comprehensive, community-based care through a “no wrong door” model.
“We are seeing firsthand how coordinated, community-based care is transforming lives, helping people stay stable, recover, and remain connected to their communities,” said Dawn Allen, President and CEO of Thrive. “But sustaining this progress requires continued investment in the systems that make it possible, from workforce support to crisis response and Medicaid funding.”
Senator Bissaillon emphasized the importance of long-term investment in behavioral health systems, including crisis services.
“I am deeply humbled to receive this recognition from Thrive Behavioral Health, which does such outstanding and vitally important work to support Rhode Islanders, and to share the honor of Legislator of the Year with Representative David Bennett, who is a tireless champion for behavioral health in our state. Through my experience in public service and professional life, I know firsthand that access to critical supports and services can be powerfully and positively transformative for individuals, families, and communities. Securing essential resources and strengthening Rhode Island’s behavioral health infrastructure will always be a priority for me, and I am grateful to everyone who shares in that commitment,” said Senator Bissaillon.
Representative Bennett highlighted the direct impact of behavioral health services on local communities.
“A healthy behavioral care system means healthier communities where more people can thrive. I have seen firsthand the community benefits of accessible behavioral health services as both a psychiatric nurse and in my time representing my constituents in the State House. Students do better in schools, substance abuse declines and social isolation lessens as communities become more connected and resilient. An investment in behavioral health is an investment in a happier, healthier Rhode Island,” said Representative Bennett.
The Legislative Breakfast focused on key priorities for the 2026 legislative session, including sustaining funding for CCBHCs, strengthening the behavioral health workforce, and ensuring continued investment in crisis response systems such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
The event also underscored Thrive’s leadership in behavioral healthcare across Rhode Island and its enduring commitment to serving individuals and families in Kent County. In recognition of this impact, Thrive received a resolution from the Rhode Island House of Representatives honoring its 50 years of service to the community.