$45 million grant to provide mental health services

AMARILLO, Texas (KFDA) - The Texas Health and Human Services Commission announced it is awarding $45 million in grant funds through the Community Mental Health Grant Program that supports mental health services and project in Texas.

“The Community Mental Health Grant Program allows Texas to provide additional and vital mental health support to residents in need,” said Sonja Gaines, HHS deputy executive commissioner for Intellectual and Development Disability and Behavioral Health Services. “Promoting mental health programs in Texas is a priority for HHSC, and grant programs like these provide opportunities to help people across the state who are in need of support.”

The grant funds will go to 53 different entities over tow years, funding local mental health and behavioral health authorities, nonprofit organizations, academic institutions and local governmental agencies located across the state.

Grants will fund community programs for people with mental illness by expanding outpatient treatment, promoting recovery and improving quality of life.

Funds also support crisis respite, crisis stabilization and extended observation services.

“Congratulations to each local community mental health provider selected to receive much needed funding through the community Mental Health Grant Program established by H.B. 13 (85R),” said State Rep. Four Price. “I thank the HHSC staff who diligently administer this program, and I especially thank all those who work on the front lines each and every day in providing these essential services to our fellow Texans.”

The 86th Legislature appropriated $45 million in 2019 to continue the Community Mental Health Grant Program in 2020 and 2021.

Awards for the Community Mental Health Grant Program were determined through a competitive procurement process.

Grant awardees are required to match a portion of the states grant award to demonstrate their commitment to addressing local mental health needs.

The three local entities will share $1. 15 million to provide mental health services:

City of Amarillo d\b\a Amarillo Public Health - $198,760
Texas Panhandle MHMR - $708,448
United Way Amarillo and Canyon d\b\a Panhandle Behavioral Health Alliance - $250,272

For more information on behavioral health services click here.