6 arrested in mental health clinic protest

June 12, 2012 (WLS) -- Police say six protesters were arrested Tuesday inside a Chicago Health Department office. They were protesting the closure of six mental health clinics in the city.

The group is also calling for the resignation of Chicago's health commissioner.

The protesters say the closures have disrupted care for thousands of patients, most who are low income and lack insurance.

Statement from the Chicago Department of Public Health:

"We support the ability of everyone to exercise their first Amendment rights and voice their opinions. We agree these mental health services are vital to the health and wellbeing of Chicagoans and should be available to more people. That's what these reforms are doing: while we consolidated City clinics from 12 to 6, new investments will allow over 1,000 new people to access mental health services; a 30% increase from the 2,900 Chicagoans who currently depend on the City for quality service. The fact remains, each and every City client has a personalized transition plan, is being monitored closely, and all those who depend on the City for service will continue to have access to quality care."

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