How? If your church won't support such a plan, try the volunteer group at a local hospital or try to set up something that a Christian will provide such as a building for your use. Much depends on the denomination of the church you attend.

In your effort to educate, please point out that about 70% of depressed people have an inherited genetic defect in the enzymes which support the transmittal of vitamin B9 (folate) across the blood-brain barrier. Only genetic testing can ascertain the missing enzymes; but if a patient feels better after about a month of taking Deplin (a concentrated form of folate that is able to pass the blood-brain barrier), it's a pretty sure thing that the person has the inherited missing enzymes that metabolize vitamin B9 (Folic acid).

Many doctors do not requre the genetic testing; they simply prescribe Deplin (7.5)
mg once daily and observe how the patient responds in feeling tone after two to
three weeks. It was a miracle drug for me, and it's called a "food medication".

Approaching your church on a positive level that offers the possibility of medical help to correct genetic problems may be helpful in your approach.

If you're worried about the church's acceptance of such a proposal, you will need to
know that some members of some churches (thankfully they are few and far between) do not have sufficient understanding of mental illness to be compassionate
in helping to heal those in need. They may be afraid because of the fear of their
own ego problems or afraid that "the wrong group" will be associated with their church--which is just not a Christian attitude to take. Nevertheless, you may be
confronted with that.

You need to point out that training of patients in diet changes and improvement in
environment may go a long way in helping them. Those are other positive points to
signal to the church that your plans include positive things such as that as well as
listening--which is very important---psychological doctor, vital, and other sources
whom you have in mind.

You may find yourself having financial things to deal with, so you should probably consult with a CPA just for the information he might provide.

You're also going to hear the negative view from a few who will tell you that AA
provides the help for that kind of thing.

I agree that your plan is admirable and something that a Christian group needs to
invovle itself in for their own mental health. Nothing is more self-healing than reaching out a helping hand to another who needs it.

If you're asking for money, forget that at this point. I doubt that you will find
many who will contribute until you see a plan that is working successfully.

Your ideal is admirable. I hope you are able to fund it and see it blossom.

Incidentally, you write beautifully--it's cogent and convincing and pleasant to read.

Good wishes in your efforts.

Genetic