Genesee County, Michigan – Congressman Dan Kildee of Michigan’s 8th district has obtained a $400,000 federal funding meant to improve treatment and recovery efforts in Genesee County, therefore benefiting local mental health and drug misuse programs. This funding, sourced from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, will support two important judicial initiatives providing alternatives to imprisonment.
Operating under the Genesee County 7th Circuit Court, the Veterans Treatment Court and the Adult Felony rehabilitation Court are meant to offer those battling mental health issues and drug use problems a road toward rehabilitation rather than criminal penalties. These courts help individuals overcome their obstacles by combining therapy, support programs, and rigorous court monitoring, therefore lowering recidivism and improving public safety.
In announcing the grant earlier this month, Congressman Kildee emphasized the profound need for such programs.
“Too many families struggle to get the care they need to address substance use disorders and mental health challenges,” he said. Kildee highlighted the significance of these specialty courts in offering individuals a second chance and confronting these issues directly, thus strengthening community safety and support structures in mid-Michigan.
Embracing the ongoing support, Breana Benham, Specialty Court Services Director for the Genesee County 7th Circuit Court, said that the funding would sustain initiatives for another five years.
“We’re very excited to receive this grant award for another 5-year term. The Recovery Court and Veteran’s Treatment Court programs play an integral role in preventing recidivism in our communities in Genesee County by offering appropriate, grant-funded treatment programming and resources for substance use and mental health disorders,” said Benham.
These initiatives are part of Congressman Kildee’s broader efforts to combat substance abuse and improve public safety across his district. Kildee announced last year a $3 million grant for the Flint/Genesee Pathway Home Program of Mott Community College, which helps former prisoners find jobs and reintegrates into society. Further proving his dedication to tackling these important public health concerns, he has effectively secured federal money to assist young people in Genesee County in efforts at drug use prevention.
This new funding not only emphasizes the need of customized, evidence-based approaches to treatment and recovery but also attests to the continuous dedication of local and federal agencies to minimize the effects of substance abuse and mental health diseases in Michigan communities.