RI Gets $10.5 Million In Federal Aid For Child Mental Health Resources

RHODE ISLAND — Rhode Island received more than $10.5 million from the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to provide mental health services for children and families, Gov. Dan McKee said Thursday.

The System of Care Expansion and Sustainability Grant provides the Rhode Island Executive Office of Health and Human Services with $10,598,585 over the next four years. Specifically, the grant help's SAMHSA's Behavioral Health System of Care for Children, Youth focuses on prevention, crisis response and other methods of support.

"We all know the COVID-19 pandemic took a toll on the well-being of many families across the state," McKee said in a statement. "These grant funds will help children and youth up to age 21 as we continue to create a supportive system of care for those with serious emotional needs, and their families. I want to thank the Congressional delegation for their support in securing this grant which allows our Administration to continue doing this important work."

"The data tells us that the Covid-19 pandemic has been particularly hard for young people, especially those who were struggling prior to the onset of the pandemic," add U.S. Rep. Jim Langevin. "With the infusion of these federal funds, EOHHS can expand their capacity to reach families quickly and offer the full range of community-based resources they may need."