ALT The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting economic recession have negatively affected many people’s mental health and created new barriers for people already suffering from mental illness and substance use disorders.During the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns about mental health and substance use have grown,including concerns about suicidal ideation. There are a variety of ways the pandemic has likely affected mental health,particularly with widespread social isolation resulting from necessary safety measures.A broad body of research links social isolation and loneliness to both poor mental and physical health.The widespread experience of loneliness became a public health concern even before the pandemic,given its association with reduced lifespan and greater risk of both mental and physical illnesses.The Buffalo Center for Health Equity felt the need to respond and decided to create a public space to talk,in addition to providing some direction for those who may find themselves in trouble