Those grants will help local agencies expand their capacity to receive referrals from the new Springfield Engage Empower Deflect (SEED) Partnership, which is aimed at providing a more holistic approach to addressing the issues of homelessness, mental health, substance abuse, crime and violence.
Memorial Health is part of the SEED leadership team, alongside the Springfield Police Department, City of Springfield, Heartland HOUSED, Helping Hands of Springfield, SIU School of Medicine, Washington Street Mission, Solid Rock Youth Transitional Services and Table of Life Ministries.
“We are proud to be part of the SEED Partnership,” said Cassie Delaney, project director for Memorial Behavioral Health’s crisis system of care. “It’s encouraging to see so many organizations coming together to address the root causes of homelessness.”
The grant will help Memorial Behavioral Health increase capacity in multiple programs that help people experiencing homelessness, including access services, engagement and therapy.
“Unfortunately, many people with mental health needs end up in the justice system instead of getting the treatment they need,” Delaney said. “One of SEED’s goals is to connect these individuals with community-based services instead. Those services, including Memorial Behavioral Health, will engage with them and help them improve their quality of life.”