September 27, 2010 (PROVIDENCE, RI)—The Providence Center recently received a grant in the amount of $52,300 from the Tufts Health Plan Foundation’s Vibrant Lifestyles program. The grant supports The Providence Center’s In Shape Seniors program, a wellness program with proven mental health, physical health and socialization outcomes. The goal of In Shape Seniors is to improve physical health while helping clients negotiate their communities and build relationships.

Isolation, physical decline and mental health are interdependent and have a profound impact on wellness. People with mental illness die 25 years earlier than the average person. Thanks to Tufts’ contribution, fifty seniors with behavioral health problems and risk factors such as smoking and obesity that contribute to chronic disease will work with a health mentor to increase physical activity, improve nutrition choices and engage in the community through In Shape Seniors.

The Providence Center annually serves over 10,000 adults, children and adolescents experiencing mental illness, substance use and emotional problems. Since its establishment in 1969, The Providence Center has been part of Rhode Island’s exemplary behavioral health care system, offering a comprehensive array of treatment and rehabilitation services. For more information call 276-4020 or visit www.providencecenter.org.