For Immediate Release: July 17, 2026 

Contact: Brian Farmer 573- 751-3158

Senator Barbara Anne Washington Invites Community to Mental Health Awareness Brunch

JEFFERSON CITY — Senator Barbara Anne Washington, D-Kansas City, is inviting the Kansas City area community to attend the 13th Annual Minority Mental Health Awareness Event, “Brunch with Bebe’s Sisters,” on July 25, 2026. The free brunch is open to the public and begins at 9:30 a.m. at MCC-Penn Valley Education Center at 3201 SW Trafficway. 

“Minorities in the United States are generally less likely to seek treatment or therapy when suffering from mental health disorders due to stigmas and lack of knowledge,” said Sen. Washington. “For the past 13 years, it has been my honor to join area leaders and mental health experts to help raise awareness and work toward breaking down these barriers.”

This year’s brunch will feature a “fireside chat” with Kansas City Police Department Major Kari Thompson and local mental health expert Dr. Kristina Jones, who will discuss trauma-informed practices and counseling. Mental health resources will also be available, with panel discussions about teen and domestic violence. 

If your organization wishes to participate, please contact Brian Farmer at brian.farmer@senate.mo.gov or 573-751-3158. 

For more information about Sen. Washington’s annual brunch or her legislation, please visit her Senate website.

###