$90 Million Allocated to Strengthen Ohio's Mental Health & Addiction Crisis Services

COLUMBUS- State Rep. Dontavius Jarrells (D-Columbus) today announces a major boost in Ohio’s mental health and addiction crisis services with a $90 million investment. This funding, made possible through President Joe Biden’s American Rescue Plan Act, will be channeled into 37 regional projects overseen by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (MHAS).  

“This funding announcement marks a significant step forward in our continuous efforts to ensure better access to mental health and addiction services,” said Rep. Jarrells. “With Ohio’s population on the rise, these investments are pivotal in delivering the quality healthcare that every Ohioan rightfully deserves.”

The array of initiatives set to be launched will effectively address existing gaps in local crisis response systems. The funds will facilitate projects ranging from short-term residential accommodations to the establishment of behavioral health urgent care clinics, mobile crisis response teams, and crucial infrastructure enhancements.

The allocated funding will be used as follows:

• 225+ New Residential Beds: Over 225 new beds will be made available for individuals in crisis situations across Ohio
• Behavioral Health Urgent Care Clinics: The creation of five Behavioral Health Urgent Care Clinics will offer prompt and specialized care
• Crisis Intervention and Observation Units: Two Crisis Intervention and Observation units will provide dedicated assistance
• Mobile Crisis Services Teams: Six new teams will be introduced, equipped to respond swiftly to crisis situations
• Technology Upgrade Projects: Four projects aimed at enhancing technological capabilities will be supported
• Crisis Consultancy: Funding will be directed towards two crisis consultancy projects to provide expert guidance

This investment underscores Ohio’s commitment to improving mental health and addiction crisis services, furthering the state’s reputation as a leader in comprehensive healthcare. By addressing critical gaps in crisis response and facilitating strategic enhancements, Ohio is taking a vital step towards safeguarding the well-being of its residents.