In the aftermath of Katrina, far too many people in New Orleans continue to struggle with substance abuse, mental illness, and post-traumatic stress syndrome; a desperate need exist to provide the treatments they lack and need--the treatments they deserve. Throughout the city, people are struggling with substance abuse, mental illness and post-traumatic stress. Without treatment designed to take into account the cultural context of such illnesses, the people in desperate need of help will continue to lack the treatment they need; the treatment they deserve.

Since 1983, Black Alcohol/Drug Service Information Center, Inc. (BASICS) has provided mental health services for over six thousand individuals and families in St. Louis and New Orleans. BASICS’s mission is simple, to provide all members of every community with mental health services. BASICS’s services are designed to provide help in the context and culture of the individuals’ environment.

BASICS opened the New Orleans branch in 1994, providing important services to the city’s communities. The services continued until September 2005 when Hurricane Katrina disrupted BASICS’s operations. “Back to Basic” is an event to repair damages to Basic’s office, and to restore Basic’s operations and programs.

We believe every American has a right to a bright future. We believe every child should be nourished and protected. And we believe everybody should be provided with adequate healthcare services.

The American Dream should be a reality for all its citizens and we , Basic, Inc., are comitted to realizing this dream.