Summit County Council is facing a critical decision regarding funding for behavioral health services, particularly those aimed at school-based programs. During a recent meeting, council members discussed a request for an additional $300,000 to support mental health services for students, which are currently at risk of significant cuts.

The request stems from a meeting with the Huntsman Mental Health Institute, which has been a contractor for behavioral health services in the county. The council learned that without this funding, the school-based program, which provided mental health treatment to 581 students last year, could be eliminated. This program is crucial as it allows students to access therapy within their schools, a service that many would not receive otherwise.

Currently, the program costs approximately $650,000 annually, but only $83,000 comes from state funding. The council has been exploring various funding sources, including grants, but officials noted that school-based services are not typically funded through grants, making the need for county support even more pressing.

Council members expressed concern over the implications of cutting the $300,000 from the budget. They highlighted the increasing mental health challenges faced by students, exacerbated by societal pressures and the impact of social media. The discussion underscored the importance of maintaining these services, not only for the immediate needs of students but also for the long-term health of the community.

As the council deliberates, they are urged to consider the broader impact of their funding decisions on the mental health landscape in Summit County. The outcome of this funding request will not only affect the current school year but will also set the stage for future mental health initiatives in the county.