In a recent meeting, the Butte County Board of Supervisors approved two significant contracts with North Valley Catholic Social Services aimed at enhancing mental health services for children and families. The first contract, mandated by state requirements, will provide specialty mental health services, including individual counseling, case management, and crisis intervention. The second contract focuses on outreach services, which will support the Iverson Center, a peer-run support facility in Chico, and the North Valley Talk Line, a non-crisis support line for residents seeking social interaction.

The total funding for these agreements amounts to $2,318,593, with the specialty mental health services contract capped at $1,041,082 and the outreach services contract at $777,511. The agreements are set to run from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.

Additionally, the board discussed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding the disbursement of opioid settlement funds to support a sobering center in Chico. This center, which has garnered community support, including a $250,000 donation from the Moore Town Rancheria, will receive $119,000 annually from the city for the next three years. The sobering center is scheduled to open on July 23, 2024, marking a significant step in addressing substance use issues in the community.

The board expressed appreciation for the efforts of the Behavioral Health Director, Scott Kennelly, in navigating the complexities of securing funding for these vital services. The opioid settlement funds are designated for specific uses, ensuring that they directly benefit the community's health initiatives.