Shawnee County Juvenile Detention Center Receives Grant for Behavioral Health System
On May 23, the Shawnee County Commission approved a grant worth over $414,000 for the Shawnee Co. Juvenile Detention Center to create a behavioral health system for its residents. The grant application was submitted by the Shawnee Co. Department of Corrections and was necessary to ensure compliance with legislation passed in 2023.
The program funded by the grant will provide mental health services to all juvenile residents at the Juvenile Detention Center, regardless of how long they stay in the facility. This initiative aims to offer wrap-around services to youth by partnering with the Family Service and Guidance Center to provide evaluations, set up appointments, and offer counseling services both during detention and after release.
The grant will cover the salary and benefits for two new positions at the Juvenile Detention Center, as well as contracts with the Family Service and Guidance Center and Family Peace Initiative. These services are designed to ensure that juvenile residents receive the mental health support they need for their well-being and successful reintegration into the community.
