PASCO COUNTY – The National Community Development Association recognized Pasco County Community Development as a winner of the 2026 Audrey Nelson Community Development Achievement Award for its collaboration with BayCare on the Behavioral Health Urgent Care Center.
The Behavioral Health Urgent Care Center bridges the gap in services for urgent substance use and mental health care for vulnerable and low-to-moderate income customers by providing immediate access to services.
“This facility is a game-changer with essential mental health care for our customers,” said Jack Mariano, chair of the Pasco Board of County Commissioners.
Key features of the center include:
- Outpatient care with extended hours
- Behavioral health alternative to ER
- Voluntary walk-in and hybrid services
- Access for anyone transitioning from jail/inpatient setting
Over $1.4 million in funding from a Community Development Block Grant secured infrastructure and renovation needs at the facility, leading to more funding for operations for the next several years.
Pasco will be honored during the 57th NCDA Winter Legislative Conference on Feb. 6 in Washington, D.C.
The award recognizes local projects and programs funded through the HUD Community Development Block Grant program and other HUD Office of Community Planning and Development funding.
Pasco County Community Development also received the Audrey Nelson Community Development Achievement Award in 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025.
On the web: ncdaonline.org.
