FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contacts:
The Therapy Fund Foundation
Ashley McGirt-Adair| president@therapyfundfoundation.org| 253-951-9990
Black People Die By Suicide Too
T-Kea Blackman| info@blackpeoplediebysuicidetoo.org
The Therapy Fund Foundation (TFF) and Black People Die By Suicide Too (BPDBST)
collaborated to host virtual Black Youth Healing Circles from February 28–April 4, 2026, funded
by the Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL). Black Youth Healing Circles
were culturally grounded peer support experiences for youth ages 18–24 that met virtually for
six weeks. The free weekly sessions were facilitated by T-Kea Blackman, Executive Director
and Co-Founder of BPDBST, and Jasmin Pierre, Peer Support/Recovery Manager.
The small-group sessions included storytelling, reflection, and wellness practices rooted in
Black traditions. These six-week virtual healing circles gave Black young adults a healing space
for navigating grief, trauma, and suicide-related distress. The session facilitators were trained
peer specialists with lived experiences.
“These Healing Circles were about more than just support; they were about showing Black
young people that they are not alone in their pain and that healing is possible in community,”
said T-Kea Blackman, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Black People Die By Suicide Too.
“We were honored to partner with The Therapy Fund Foundation to expand our reach from
Maryland to Washington state to create a space rooted in culture, dignity, and care. This
program reminded us that when we come together, healing happens.”
Healing Circles centered connection, cultural affirmation, and collective care. LGBTQ+ and
gender-expansive youth were welcome and affirmed. Participants were invited to show up as
they were, move at their own pace, and connect with others in a supportive environment. Black
Youth Healing Circles were grounded in shared experience, mutual support, and healing
together. The circles centered on care, dignity, and belonging.
Media representatives are invited to share information about this completed program. For
interviews or additional information, please contact admin@therapyfundfoundation.org or
info@blackpeoplediebysuicidetoo.org.
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Therapy Fund Foundation Black People Die by Suicide Too
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About Therapy Fund Foundation:
Founded to increase access to mental health care for Black and Brown communities, Therapy
Fund Foundation provides free therapy services, therapist support, and mental health
education. Through initiatives like Black Youth Healing Circles, the organization continues its
mission of healing through access, advocacy, and community care.
About Black People Die By Suicide Too:
Founded in 2023, BPDBST is a peer-led non-profit organization that focuses on suicide
prevention and mental health awareness in the Black community. Through education, advocacy,
and peer support, BPDBST addresses the unique challenges Black individuals face related to
mental health
