Prime Highlights
- The US government announced more than $700 million in funding to address mental health issues, addiction and homelessness.
- The new STREETS program will provide up to $3 million annually for four years to each of eight selected communities.
Key Facts
- The funding package includes $238.6 million for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and $223.1 million for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics.
- The STREETS program aims to coordinate healthcare, housing, law enforcement and court services for vulnerable populations.
Background
The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced more than $700 million in new funding opportunities aimed at addressing mental illness, substance use disorders and homelessness across the country.
The funding package includes a new $96 million grant initiative called Safety Through Recovery, Engagement, and Evidence-based Treatment and Support (STREETS). The program will provide financial support to eight communities seeking to improve care and treatment services for people experiencing homelessness while dealing with serious mental illness, substance use disorders or both.
Under the initiative, each selected community can receive up to $3 million annually for four years. HHS said the program will help local governments develop coordinated systems that connect healthcare providers, housing organizations, law enforcement agencies and courts to deliver comprehensive support services.
US Health Secretary Robert F. declared the donation while visiting a Clinton Township, Michigan, Easterseals Michigan behavioral health clinic. He said the investments are intended to help individuals move from homelessness into treatment and recovery while also supporting families, saving lives and improving public safety.
The broader funding package includes $223.1 million for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics and $238.6 million for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. HHS will also allocate $80 million for substance use prevention, treatment and recovery programs.
In addition, more than $70 million will support mental health services and related assistance programs. According to the department, the grant is consistent with the Great American Recovery Initiative by President Donald Trump to help tackle crimes and other disorders in the community in the U.S.
