Potential Closure Of Cape Cod's State-Run Mental Health Facility Draws Ire

POCASSET, MA — Gov. Maura Healey's most recent budget proposal would see Cape Cod's only state-run mental health facility shutter.

The Pocasset Mental Health Center is on the chopping block in the recent proposal. Located in Pocasset, the mental health center has 16 inpatient beds to care for people 19 and over.

This section of the proposal has drawn ire from various Cape Cod elected officials, including State Rep. David T. Vieira and State Sen. Dylan Fernandes.

"The Department of Mental Health’s decision to close 16 in-patient beds in an area of critical need will further exacerbate issues of mental health access on the Cape," Fernandes said.

He continued:

"That they are cutting services in a community with mental health challenges and one that is home to the Wampanoag Tribe undermines the Administration's stated commitment to serving overlooked and underserved communities. We’re calling on the State Administration to reverse this reckless move. Our office is going to fight to keep these critical mental health services on Cape Cod."

The budget proposal would also close a facility in Canton, Massachusetts.

Vieira said the facilities are "vital lifelines" for children, families and adults in the area.

"The absence of these resources will have devastating consequences for individuals and families already grappling with limited access to mental health care."