Bellmore-Merrick Students Rock Out For Mental Health, Raise $6K For Teen Facility

BELLMORE-MERRICK, NY — Music flooded John F. Kennedy High School earlier this month for a cause — to raise money for South Oaks Hospital, a teen mental health facility partnered with Northwell Health.

On May 1, student rock bands, and a few teachers, from Calhoun High School, Mepham High School, JFK High School, Grand Avenue Middle School, and Merrick Avenue Middle School played for more than 250 people.

JFK Seniors Ben Roth and Jordan Siegel, along with Math Chairperson and Organizer David Prince, raised more than $6,000 towards supporting mental health and making resources more accessible for teens on Long Island.

Along with student efforts, local businesses donated money, food, and gifts for raffles.

Prince said the event was all about bringing the district together to play great music for a great cause.

"There aren't many venues for kids to play rock music anymore, and they all had a great time," he said. "Student mental health is more important than ever, and Rock For Mental Health brings those issues to the forefront."

He wants students to know they have a safe space in the district: "If you're suffering from anxiety, depression, or other issues, we have a place for you."