Advocates urge Multnomah County to fund school-based mental health services

The Multnomah County Regular Meeting held on March 20, 2025, focused heavily on the critical issue of funding for school-based mental health services. The meeting featured public testimonies that underscored the urgent need for continued financial support for these programs, which are seen as vital lifelines for vulnerable youth in the community.

The first speaker, a long-time children's care coordinator, passionately advocated for the preservation of school-based mental health teams. Drawing from personal experience, the speaker highlighted the dire consequences of cutting these services, particularly for marginalized groups such as Black, Brown, and LGBTQIA+ youth. They recounted their own struggles with accessing mental health care, emphasizing the long wait times and lack of available resources that families face. The speaker warned that reducing funding would jeopardize the safety and stability of children in Multnomah County, potentially leading to devastating outcomes.

Following this testimony, Charles Johnson addressed the meeting, framing the discussion around the financial implications of mental health investments. He argued that neglecting the mental health needs of children now would result in greater costs in the future, both financially and socially. Johnson criticized past decisions that prioritized short-term savings over long-term welfare, using the example of a costly jail project that ultimately failed to serve its intended purpose. He called for a commitment to funding mental health services, suggesting that even those with limited means, including disabled individuals, would be willing to make sacrifices to ensure these programs are maintained.

The testimonies reflected a strong consensus on the importance of school-based mental health services, with speakers urging county officials to prioritize the mental well-being of children. The meeting concluded with a clear message: investing in mental health now is essential for the future stability and safety of the community's youth. The discussions will likely influence budget considerations as the county moves forward in addressing these critical needs.