On September 20th, U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine revealed that over $3.5 million in federal funding will be allocated to bolster behavioral health services across Virginia.
The funds, specifically $3,517,754, will be used to strengthen mental health and substance use problem services at community health centers. These facilities are frequently the primary source of care and treatment for individuals who are uninsured, underinsured, or enrolled in Medicaid.
The Health Resources and Services Administration’s Behavioral Health Service Expansion program granted the funding.
The allocation of funds will be as follows:
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- $600,000 for New Horizons Healthcare in Roanoke
- $600,000 for Neighborhood Health in Alexandria
- $600,000 for Rockbridge Area Health Center in Lexington
- $600,000 for Southwest Community Health in Saltville
- $599,996 for Tri-Area Community Health in Laurel Fork
- $517,758 for Daily Planet Inc. in Richmond
Senators Warner and Kaine have consistently advocated for the expansion of behavioral health services throughout Virginia. Back in 2023, they proudly announced the allocation of almost $1.4 million in mental health care funding for the state. This funding was made possible through their efforts in passing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. Additionally, they championed the introduction of the CONNECT for Health Act, a crucial initiative aimed at enhancing telehealth coverage.
Senator Kaine has introduced the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act, which aims to address and prevent mental and behavioral conditions, burnout, and suicide among healthcare professionals. This legislation has already allocated $100 million in funding, with $5.6 million specifically designated for Virginia providers.
The senators emphasized the importance of behavioral health care in our communities and expressed the need for increased access to this support. They expressed their satisfaction with the funding, as it will enable community health centers in Virginia to reach more individuals and offer them the necessary behavioral health services.
