The McHenry County Circuit Court announced it will receive more than $1.3 million in grant funding to help expand its specialty court programs, which are for people with substance abuse and mental disorders.
The 22nd Judicial Circuit of McHenry County said it will receive a “significant grant” totaling $1,309,860 from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
The grant, which will be disbursed over the next five years, is designated for the expansion of the court’s specialty programs.
The funding will be specifically aimed at enhancing treatment services for individuals with substance use disorder and mental health disorders.
“We are ecstatic to receive this grant to help us evolve and expand the work of our Circuit in addressing the needs of our community,” McHenry County Chief Judge Michael Chmiel said.
“The team we have assembled in our Problem-Solving Court Division has done remarkable work in identifying emerging issues and needs, and working to address them. This funding helps further our mission,” Chmiel said.
Director of Special Projects Kelly Scimeca and Finance Coordinator Courtney Knopp, with the assistance of Jon Thomas Consulting, authored the grant proposal.
“This grant has the potential to transform our program,” Scimeca said.
“Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a powerful and proven treatment for various mental health disorders, yet its high cost makes it inaccessible to many. By securing this grant, we aim to eliminate this financial barrier and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to benefit from this effective therapy. We truly want to set up our clients for success and hope that they continue to live their best lives once they graduate from the program,” Scimeca said.
The funding is earmarked for the integration of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), DBT training, continuum of care expansion, access to therapeutic services and enhanced support for clinical staff.
“This grant not only supports our ongoing efforts to provide comprehensive, effective care but also reinforces our commitment to the community and our belief in the power of recovery,” Trial Court Administrator Dan Wallis said.
“We are grateful for SAMHSA’s support and are eager to see the positive changes that these funds will bring to the client, but also to the community that they live in,” Wallis said.