The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced it is awarding a Jail Diversion and Trauma Recovery grant to the Pennsylvania Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse. The grant totals up to $2 million over five years.

The purpose of this program is to support local implementation and statewide expansion of jail diversion programs that address the experience of traumatic events in order to better serve individuals with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma related disorders involved in the justice system. In recognition of the markedly higher prevalence of trauma related illnesses among veterans, this program will prioritize eligibility for veterans. Pennsylvania plans to implement a diversion program in a pilot community and expand successful efforts to additional communities in the state.

This grant program is one part of SAMHSA's strategic initiative on trauma and justice. These grants will advance understanding and implementation of trauma informed care services and divert people with substance use and mental disorders from criminal and juvenile justice systems into trauma-informed treatment and recovery.

"We know that many people in the justice system have lives that have been repeatedly affected by violence and trauma. Through grants like this we can begin to recognize and treat the harmful effects of trauma, integrate trauma-informed care throughout the system, and move these individuals into recovery and hopeful futures," said SAMHSA Administrator Pamela S. Hyde, J.D. "In addition, by prioritizing veterans in this grant program, we can help make sure that these men and women, who have sacrificed so much for our country, are linked to effective services and community support."

Under this grant it is projected that the state can receive up to $394,000 per year, over the course of five years. Continuation awards are subject to availability of funds and progress achieved by awardees. Pennsylvania is the 13th state to receive a grant award through the Jail Diversion and Trauma Recovery program.

Source
SAMHSA