Funding Rescinded and Restored for US Mental Health and Substance Use Programs
TL/DR –
Funding for almost 2,800 mental health and substance use programs in the US was abruptly cut and then reinstated within 24 hours. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration partners with these organizations, which were told via letter that their funding was being withdrawn immediately, only for a letter the next day to state that the funding was reinstated. The uncertainty and potential instability caused by these actions have been criticized by those running these organizations, who are concerned about the potential for future sudden changes.
Unexpected Suspension and Reinstatement of Mental Health Programs in the US
In Alabama, a program assists HIV patients with treatment and housing, while in New Hampshire, a training initiative aids first responders in mental health crises. Meanwhile, children in Tennessee receive trauma counseling. However, on a recent Wednesday, funding for these programs and thousands alike was abruptly rescinded. This affected approximately 2,800 organizations providing mental health and substance use services, often working in collaboration with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (Samhsa).
The directors of these programs received a letter stating their funding from the US government was cut immediately causing them to scramble for emergency meetings to review payroll, await layoffs, and find alternative means to keep their doors open.
However, a day later, a new directive reinstated the cancelled federal awards, as per a letter obtained by the Guardian. The earlier termination notice was to be disregarded, and program activities were to continue.
Reuben Rotman, president and CEO of the Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies, described the situation as “incredibly disruptive” for both organizations and the communities they assist. The abrupt termination of contracts without warning was worrisome, particularly for those who complied with regulations.
Devin Lyall, founder of Wilkes Recovery Revolution, expressed the main concern was the uncertainty of continuing to provide services to vulnerable populations. Her organization, which is in its third year of a five-year Samhsa grant totaling one-fifth of their funding, helps individuals in rural North Carolina with transitional housing, work and doctors’ appointments, and more.
Lyall emphasized that the sudden threat of stopping these life-changing services felt like “a direct hit”. Even though funding has been reinstated, the fear of having it withdrawn again lingers.
It’s hard to plan for the future without the assurance of secure funding, according to the grantees. Saeeda Dunston, CEO of Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities Inc, insisted that “life-saving care cannot operate on instability”. Her organization primarily serves Queens communities experiencing behavioral health disparities.
The need for a more stable system that is not heavily affected by political shifts was echoed by all involved. Rotman concluded that without secure funding, “the safety net for the most vulnerable is most surely being eroded, and it’s raising a lot of concern”.
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