Abbe Center residents deserve quality care

The halls at the Abbe Center for Community Care in Marion are getting quieter and many of the rooms are empty. Just a month ago, the Abbe Care Center was home for 75 residents with chronic mental illness. It is here where they felt comfortable and had a sense of belonging.

The Abbe staff treated them with dignity, respect and a deep sense of caring. The residents had many learning opportunities throughout the day and could choose classes that were challenging and appropriate for their needs. They were challenged to learn about current events, new ways to manage their feelings, knowledge about medications, etc. Besides intellectual challenges, they had opportunities to socialize with each other by playing games, exercising together, going to nearby parks, etc.

When residents experienced difficult times, professional staff was available for one-on-one counseling, which helped bring them solace.

By Monday, the rooms at the Abbe Center will be completely empty as the facility is closed because of lack of funding. These 75 residents have been fortunate to be cared for by an outstanding mental health staff. I hope these residents will experience the same level of care in their new environments with new professional mental health workers.

They deserve to have access to quality mental health care delivered by dedicated and caring professionals.

Dee Mosiman

Dubuque