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July 15, 2009

What:

Contra Costa Health Services' Mental Health Division has been approved for $16.2 million in Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) money to fund its Community Services and Supports (CSS) Plan. CSS is one of the components funded by the Mental Health Services Act and combines an array of services—such as housing, health care, education and job training—tailored to meet an individual's needs to help that person transition to the road of recovery. In addition to enhancing the services offered, the funding will expand services and client capacity throughout the county.

Why:

California voters approved the Mental Health Services Act (Prop. 63) in 2004. The Act levies a 1% tax on personal incomes of more than $1 million. These revenues are reserved for public mental health departments to transform and expand public mental health services. The California Department of Mental Health announced the release of the $16.2 million allocated for Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS) on June 24. The funds allow CCHS to renew existing contracts with service providers, as well as fund case management, psychiatric and administrative staff.

How:

In accordance with MHSA guidelines, CCHS conducted an extensive public planning process for its CSS plan to determine where mental health services could be improved, with a focus on underserved populations. Throughout the past year, CCHS has employed various outreach efforts, through providers and community partners, to connect with underserved people.

To read the CCHS Community Services and Supports Plan, visit www.cchealth.org

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