Enhancing Youth Support: Kansas Department of Corrections Expands Behavioral Health Services in Juvenile Detention Centers

EMPORIA, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) recently announced exciting news: they are rolling out grants to expand mental health services for juveniles in detention. This initiative, shared on September 16, signals a necessary shift in how the justice system addresses youth behavior.

KDOC is investing over $1.4 million in grant funding. This money is designed to help juvenile detention facilities across Kansas provide accessible mental health and substance use services. Megan Milner, KDOC Deputy Secretary, emphasizes that this support is a “game-changer.” The goal is to identify mental health and substance use issues early on. By doing so, young people can receive the help they need, reducing their chances of future encounters with the justice system.

This initiative stems from the recent passage of House Bill 2021, which focuses on the behavioral health needs of juveniles. The hope is to connect families with support sooner, making a real difference in their lives.

A significant statistic from KDOC reveals that 80% of youths admitted to detention centers are dealing with mental health or substance use disorders. This highlights the urgent need for effective intervention. Steve Stonehouse, the Sedgwick County Director of Corrections, supports this initiative, stating that by addressing these challenges early, we can offer vital support not just to the youth but also to their families. Such support can play a crucial role in changing the course of their lives.

In many cases, this is the first time detention centers have had the resources to offer these essential services. By meeting the behavioral health needs of youth, Kansas aims to create a healthier future for its younger population.

For more detailed information on mental health initiatives and funding, you can read the full report from KDOC here.

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