“Let the Sunshine In” Bar Crawl: A Personal Mission of Hope, Healing, and Mental Health Awareness

Buffalo resident organizes charity event in memory, celebration, and support of community mental health care

On Sunday, August 3rd from 7PM to 11PM, the Allentown neighborhood of Buffalo will host the Let the Sunshine In Bar Crawl, a powerful community event focused on raising mental health awareness, eliminating stigma, and supporting BryLin Hospital, now in its 70th year of providing compassionate behavioral health care in Western New York.

What makes this bar crawl different is the deeply personal story behind it. Daniel, a proud member of Buffalo’s LGBTQ+ community, is organizing the Buffalo bar crawl for mental health awareness event as a tribute to those we’ve lost, to those still struggling—and to the local institution that helped save his life.

“With everything happening in the world—global unrest, local politics, inflation, mental health challenges, and the heartbreaking loss of Mickey, Jordan, and Tim from 26—we need hope now more than ever,” Daniel said. “It’s time we start creating our own light.”

Over the past two years, Daniel has been hospitalized at BryLin twice, receiving life-saving mental health care during some of his most difficult moments. BryLin was also there for his mother and other family members in times of crisis. Now, he’s determined to give back.

“The staff at BryLin treated me with dignity, grace, and respect when I felt completely broken,” he said. “I want to help eliminate the shame so many people feel when they seek help. There’s nothing weak about asking for support—it’s one of the bravest things you can do.”

Let the Sunshine In Bar Crawl – Event Details:
📅 Sunday, August 3rd | 7PM–11PM
📍 Start at Fugazi (503 Franklin St), then head to TwentySix Allen and Underground

Event Highlights:

• Free food & live DJ (7PM–9PM at Fugazi) courtesy of Bill Quagliano of Buffalo Home Sellers

• Drag shows and themed drinks (both alcoholic & non-alcoholic)

• Raffles & giveaways featuring generous donations from Massage Therapeutic Arts and other Elmwood and Allen-area businesses

Proceeds from the evening will benefit BryLin Hospital, a trusted provider of inpatient and outpatient behavioral health care for children, adolescents, and adults.

This event isn’t just about fundraising—it’s about community healing, challenging stigma, and making sure no one feels alone in their mental health journey.

“This is a night for everyone who’s ever struggled and survived,” Daniel said. “Let’s celebrate the light we bring to each other.”

About BryLin Hospital

Founded in 1955, BryLin Hospital has provided compassionate behavioral health care for 70 years. With crisis inpatient mental health care services rooted in dignity, empathy, and evidence-based care, BryLin remains committed to supporting individuals and families across Western New York. For more information on BryLin Hospital, visit brylin.com.