Advocates for Sagamore Children's Psychiatric Center in Dix Hills spoke to the state Office of Mental Health during a statewide public hearing in an effort to stop plans that would shut down the facility.

The state recently announced cost-cutting plans to change the way mental health services are provided, including ending inpatient services at the Dix Hills center.

If Sagamore closes, children who need inpatient services would have to travel to Bellerose, Queens or the Bronx.

Employees from Sagamore Children's Psychiatric Center are planning a rally in October.