TWO MAJOR and parallel developments have brought about a new interchange between the psychiatrist and the student of urban affairs. One is the modern approach to the care and treatment of the mental illnesses through preventive and restorative services in the community. The other development is the swift movement of social change and urbanization which challenges all of our efforts. The momentum of change does not customarily wait upon our readiness for it. But today we are engaged in preparing to meet many of the urban problems of our time. In mental health we have taken the community road toward more effective services. In other areas of our national life, the way is now cleared for other community services to improve the outlook of the underprivileged. Under review now are the traditional agencies of our urban scene—such as welfare, redevelopment, and housing. It is