Funding Aids Summer Mental Health Programs For Canton Youths

State of Connecticut

CANTON, CT — State officials last week announced a major round of grant funding for programs addressing mental health concerns for youths over the summer, including those in Canton.

Governor Ned Lamont and Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker June 27 announced the release of more than $2 million in grants for 36 school districts and summer camp programs across Connecticut.

Those will be used to support the delivery of mental health programming for students during the summer months over the next two years.

Among the beneficiaries is the Canton School District, which will receive $67,986, according to state officials.

Awarded under the Connecticut State Department of Education’s Summer Mental Health Supports Grant program, the grants for each district and summer camp program range from $17,000 to $85,000.

This competitive grant program utilizes funding the state received from the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

This is the third of three rounds of grants the department has issued with ARPA funding that are aimed at increasing access to mental health support services for Connecticut’s youths.

Eligible costs incurred beginning in summer 2024 through summer 2025 are reimbursable under this grant program.

The funding will support mental health services for students during the summer by partnering with Connecticut local and regional school districts, youth camp operators, and other summer programs through summer 2025.

This grant is an extension of the Summer Mental Health Grant Program issued in 2023 for three years, which provided $4.5 million to 48 school districts and summer camp programs.

“The need for mental health services for our youth continues year-round, and by enhancing existing programs and creating new initiatives tailored to their needs, we are investing in the future success and well-being of Connecticut’s youth,” Lamont said.

“The collaboration between school districts, summer camps, and mental health professionals is key to this effort, ensuring that our students receive the necessary support during these critical periods.”

“By partnering with schools, camps, and community-based programs, we are ensuring that mental health services are available year-round,” Russell-Tucker said. “This investment further extends the availability of social, emotional, and mental health supports during the summer through new community partners with innovative initiatives and programming to support students wherever they are spending time this summer.”

For the full announcement, click on this link.