FSGC talks merger, mental health and tasty upcoming fundraiser

TOPEKA (KSNT) – Pam Evans with Family Service and Guidance Center (FSGC) joined the 27 News morning show to talk about their new merger with Valeo, mental health and their tasty upcoming fundraiser.

27 News asked Evans about their upcoming merger that is official starting January 1, 2026.

“Earlier this week, we unveiled the new name, the new tagline, new logo,” Evans said. “It’s a historic time for Topeka, mental health in Topeka. There’s been a long history with Menninger and Topeka State Hospital. Vallejo and Family Service and Guidance Center merging will just be even better for those who need the services and support in the community. A lot of streamlining and and we’re just very excited about about coming together and even better serving the community.”

27 News asked Evans about the services, their offer and who they provide services to.

“We are the mental health safety net for the community and probably have done done so for decades,” Evans said. “You know, there’s a wide variety of services. Each organization provides, you know, everything from crisis services, substance use, treatment, outpatient therapy, case management. I could go on and on just really finding what the individuals or families need and wrapping services and supports around them.”

We also asked Evans if there has been an uptick in those looking for services.

“We certainly have not seen decreases, unfortunately,” Evans told us. “You know, the needs do continue to grow. And both organizations, you know, staffing has increased to meet those needs. And with us coming together, you know, our goal is providing quicker, better access, better outcomes, and it’s whole person health.”

FSGC is bringing back ‘Topeka’s tastiest fundraising event’ Meals for Mental Health for its 11th year. Tickets are on sale now. They can be redeemed for a meal anytime at the Topeka Texas Roadhouse located at 5901 S.W. Huntoon St. between October 1-31, dine in or dine out. Tickets can be purchased here.

Ticket purchases will directly benefit individuals served by FSGC, providing hope and healing for happier lives, according to their flyer.

Meal tickets:

• $22 each + tax
• $19 each + tax for groups of 10-15 people
• $17 each + tax for groups of 16 or more

Meal Options:

• Six-ounce Sirloin

• Grilled Pork Chop

• Grilled Barbeque Chicken

• Grilled Chicken Salad

All meals come with Texas Roadhouse’s famous rolls and a soft drink.

To hear more about what Evans said, you can watch the interview above.

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