PROVIDENCE – The R.I. Department of Children, Youth & Families has secured $2.9 million in federal funding to support mental health services for children and youths living with or at risk of serious emotional disturbances – diagnosed mental, behavioral or emotional disorders that interfere with their ability to function at school or home.
“No one should have to struggle alone to get their child the mental health care they need,” said Rep. Seth Magaziner, D-R.I., in his office’s Aug. 18 announcement. “This funding will strengthen access to care in Rhode Island so that kids facing serious emotional challenges can get the support they need early and have the opportunity to live happy, successful lives into adulthood.”
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The award, provided through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The funds will support SAMHSA’s Children’s Mental Health Initiative, which offers community mental health services to those 21 and under with severe emotional disturbances, according to the administration’s website.
These can include conditions such as severe anxiety, depression and trauma-related disorders.
Magaziner’s office did not disclose the specifics of how the state will use its new federal funding but said SAMHSA funding supports services like in-home and community-based therapy, car coordination, crisis intervention and case management.
“Children struggling with their mental health and their families need our support,” said Rep. Gabe Amo, D-R.I., in the release. “This federal funding will help our dedicated mental health professionals support children and [youths] with severe emotional needs. Every struggling child deserves appropriate care so they can heal, grow, and thrive.”
Mica Kanner-Mascolo is a PBN staff writer. She can be reached at kannermascolo@pbn.com.
