FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TORRINGTON, Conn. – July 16, 2026 – As the nation approaches the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, the McCall Behavioral Health Network is proud to announce its acceptance into the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program, a limited federal health care program administered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that provides medical monitoring and treatment for certified World Trade Center-related health conditions.
Many responders and survivors continue to experience lasting physical and behavioral health conditions related to their exposure, including respiratory illnesses, cancer, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and increased risk for substance use disorders.
“As we approach the 25th anniversary of September 11, we are reminded that the impact continues to be felt by responders, survivors, and their families,” said McCall President and CEO Maria Coutant Skinner, LCSW. “We are honored to join the World Trade Center Health Program and help ensure that those who answered the call and those whose lives were forever changed by the attacks have access to the specialized care they deserve.”
The McCall Behavioral Health Network’s whole-person model of care makes the organization uniquely equipped to support WTC Health Program members with coordinated treatment that addresses both their physical and emotional well-being.
“At McCall, we recognize that every person’s experience is unique, and healing is not one-size-fits-all,” said Joy Pendola, LMFT, LADC, McCall Chief Clinical Officer. “As a trauma-informed organization, we offer a wide range of evidence-based treatment options that allow us to meet individuals where they are and address the complex challenges that can arise from trauma and other health conditions.”
The World Trade Center Health Program supports responders and survivors whose health was impacted by the September 11 attacks, including those who responded at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, or Shanksville, Pennsylvania, as well as individuals who lived, worked, attended school, or were otherwise present in the affected areas of New York City.
Today, the program serves more than 130,000 enrolled members across the United States. Members can access services without having to pay any co-payments, deductibles, or other out-of-pocket expenses for medically necessary treatment of certified WTC-related health conditions. For Connecticut residents enrolled in the program, the McCall Behavioral Health Network’s participation expands access to behavioral health and primary care services closer to home while supporting continuity of care through the WTC Health Program’s Nationwide Provider Network.
Individuals who may have been impacted by the September 11 attacks are encouraged to visit www.cdc.gov/wtc/apply.html to determine their eligibility and apply today to become a member of the World Trade Center Health Program. Current members can call 860.496.2100 to coordinate next steps and begin accessing care through the McCall Behavioral Health Network.
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About the McCall Behavioral Health Network
Serving families and individuals of all ages across western Connecticut for 50+ years, McCall Behavioral Health Network is operating proof of the power of connection. We’re a diverse network of experienced, specialized, and highly trained behavioral healthcare professionals. Equally important, we’re passionate and compassionate people who are committed to helping individuals, families and communities access resources, overcome adversity, build resilience, and achieve wellness. A network that heals. A community who cares. That’s McCall Behavioral Health Network. www.mccallbhn.org
Contact:
Marisa Mittelstaedt
Director of Development & Marketing
Mobile: 860.202.4916