In the heart of Chesterfield County, a gathering of community leaders and board members took place on September 17, 2025, to discuss the annual update on mental health support services. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of purpose as Jen Krajewski, chair of the community services board, opened the meeting with gratitude for the ongoing support from the board and community.

Kelly Reed, the director of mental health support services, took the stage to present a comprehensive report highlighting the department's mission to promote recovery outcomes for individuals facing mental health challenges, substance use issues, and intellectual disabilities. Last year, the department served approximately 8,100 individuals, with an additional 15,000 benefiting from prevention programs. Notably, over 2,061 new intakes were recorded, indicating a growing demand for services.

The financial landscape of the department was also a focal point of the discussion. The budget for the current fiscal year stands at approximately $64.9 million, with Medicaid contributing a significant portion. However, a reduction of $150,000 in funding was noted, primarily due to the expiration of ARPA funding. Despite this, Reed emphasized that the majority of expenditures are directed towards supporting individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, with only 11% allocated for administrative costs.

Community engagement was a recurring theme, with Reed highlighting various initiatives, including a successful multicultural food festival and recognition through two NACO awards for innovative programs aimed at enhancing socialization among children and promoting emergency behavioral responses. The department's collaboration with local housing partners has also yielded positive results, with 11 individuals successfully placed in permanent housing through recent partnerships.

As September marks Recovery Month, the meeting addressed the ongoing challenges of substance use in the community. While there was a decrease in drug-related deaths, with 53 lives lost in 2024, the presence of xylazine in the drug supply remains a concern. The department has actively distributed over 4,000 boxes of Narcan and implemented naloxone vending machines across the county to combat overdose incidents.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism and determination. The community services board is committed to enhancing mental health support and addressing the pressing issues of substance use and housing stability. As Chesterfield County continues to navigate these challenges, the collaborative efforts of its leaders and community members will be crucial in fostering a healthier, more supportive environment for all residents.