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4/20/2026
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Rep. Bennett, Sen. Bissaillon honored by Thrive Behavioral Health
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 STATE HOUSE – Rep. David A. Bennett and Sen. Jacob E. Bissaillon have been honored by Thrive Behavioral Health as its Legislators of the Year.
Senator Bissaillon (D-Dist. 1, Providence), who chairs the Senate’s Housing and Municipal Government Committee, was selected for the award for his strong and successful advocacy for behavioral health, particularly mobile crisis response and stabilization services.
“I am deeply humbled to receive this recognition from Thrive Behavioral Health, which does such outstanding and vitally important work to support Rhode Islanders, and to share the honor of Legislator of the Year with Representative David Bennett, who is a tireless champion for behavioral health in our state. Through my experience in public service and professional life, I know firsthand that access to critical supports and services can be powerfully and positively transformative for individuals, families, and communities. Securing essential resources and strengthening Rhode Island’s behavioral health infrastructure will always be a priority for me, and I am grateful to everyone who shares in that commitment,” said Senator Bissaillon.
Said Thrive President and CEO Dawn Allen, “Senator Jake Bissaillon has been an invaluable ally to Thrive and to the communities we serve. His steadfast focus on equitable health care, accessible mental health treatment, and stable housing reflects a profound understanding of the challenges facing our communities, and a genuine commitment to meeting them. His advocacy aligns seamlessly with our mission and has made a real and lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most.”
Representative Bennett (D-Dist. 20, Warwick, Cranston), in whose district Thive is located, was honored for his longtime support and advocacy for the agency and his understanding of the direct impact of behavioral health services on local communities.
“A healthy behavioral care system means healthier communities where more people can thrive. I have seen firsthand the community benefits of accessible behavioral health services as both a psychiatric nurse and in my time representing my constituents in the State House. Students do better in schools, substance abuse declines and social isolation lessens as communities become more connected and resilient. An investment in behavioral health is an investment in a happier, healthier Rhode Island,” said Representative Bennett.
Said Allen, “Representative David Bennett has long been one of Thrive’s most valued allies. With a deep, personal understanding of the important work we do and the high-quality services we deliver, he has consistently shown up as a tireless advocate and an unwavering source of support. He is someone we can always count on to stand with us when it matters most.”
The behavioral and mental health services provider presented the awards at a legislative breakfast held April 10 at its Warwick headquarters. The event featured remarks from Congressman Seth Magaziner, Senate President Valarie J. Lawson (D-Dist. 14, East Providence) and Thrive leadership, as well as a powerful client story highlighting the real-world impact of behavioral health services.
IN PHOTO: From left, Thrive Behavioral Health Board Chairperson Jennifer Wheelehon, Rep. David A. Bennett, Sen. Jacob E. Bissaillon and Thrive Behavioral Health President and CEO Dawn Allen at Thrive’s Legislative Breakfast, where the agency presented Representative Bennett and Senator Bissaillon with its Policy Impact Award.
For more information, contact:
Meredyth R. Whitty, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 222-1923
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