The Up Center Hosts Roundtable to Strengthen Access to Care In Western Tidewater

[Suffolk, Virginia] – [March 27, 2026] – The Up Center recently convened regional partners for Up for Discussion: Strengthening Connections to Care, a roundtable focused on improving access to services in Western Tidewater.

Participants included The Up Center’s Outpatient Counseling Team, Hampton VA Healthcare System, Virginia Legal Aid Society, Western Tidewater Community Services Board, and Communities in Schools in Hampton Roads.

The discussion centered on a shared goal: creating a more connected and accessible system of care. While strong relationships and ongoing resource-sharing efforts were noted as strengths, partners identified ongoing barriers including funding limitations, staffing constraints, data sharing challenges, and the lack of a centralized “one-stop” system for families.

“This work aligns directly with how we approach care at The Up Center,” said Angela Bell, Director of Program Operations at The Up Center. “Through our integrated service model, we focus on coordination, clinical quality, and making it easier for individuals and families to access the support they need.”

Participants also highlighted key gaps affecting the community, including transportation, utility assistance, access to reliable technology, and a lack of emergency housing assistance including support for pet care.

As a result of the roundtable, partners committed to developing a shared online resource list, improving coordination between agencies, and planning a larger in-person meeting for additional stakeholders.

The Up Center invites community organizations, providers, and community members to join the ongoing effort to strengthen access to care in Western Tidewater: www.theupcenter.org/collaborateWT