OBSERVER File Photo The Mental Health Association in Chautauqua County’s North County Recovery Center is temporarily closed because of issues with their space in Grace Lutheran Church in Dunkirk.

Mental Health Association in Chautauqua County (MHA) Executive Director Michael Nordin announced today the agency is looking forward to reopening the North County Recovery Center by early May.

Three weeks ago Nordin reported that the center, located in Grace Lutheran Church, 601 Eagle Street in Dunkirk, was being closed temporarily because of issues with the building.

Nordin said today, “We have been working with church personnel to determine and remediate the problem, and a resolution is near. Until we are back in operation, which we anticipate will be early next month, we will continue to have one of our recovery coaches at Dunkirk’s Friendly Kitchen every Tuesday.” Operated by Chautauqua County Rural Ministry, the Friendly Kitchen is at 319 Washington Avenue in Dunkirk.

MHA Board President Sarah Tranum said, “We know how important the Dunkirk center is to the community, and we appreciate everyone’s patience. We’re looking forward to getting the doors open again and being there for the people who count on us.”

Nordin emphasized that until the reopening, anyone in recovery from substance use or mental health disorders who would like to talk to or meet with an MHA coach in Dunkirk can call (716) 661-9044 or email info@MHAChautauqua.org.