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County hears results from Community County Safety Investment Fund programs at jail; Grand Mental Health reports client linkages
Summary
Grand Mental Health presented progress on two positions funded by the Community County Safety Investment Fund — a peer recovery support specialist and an employment/care coordinator — describing client linkages, barriers to staffing and early successes in linking jail-involved individuals to outpatient care, housing and employment.
Grand Mental Health staff presented an update to the Rogers County commissioners on programs funded by the Community County Safety Investment Fund administered by the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.
Sandra Turbot, regional clinical director for Grand Mental Health, and Amber McDonald, operational director, described the local “release to recovery” program funded through county award of roughly $289,000 tied to state-level reinvestment under State Question 781. The program embeds a certified peer recovery support specialist and a care coordinator to connect jail-involved clients to outpatient care, housing resources and employment supports.
Turbot said the program’s aims include reducing recidivism by improving continuity of care. "Those individuals that are receiving mental health services can possibly have a reduced recidivism rate by up to 40 percent," she said, citing evidence used to justify investment in community treatment alternatives.
Program staff reported client outcomes including eight individuals discharged after successful linkage to outpatient services and several who were connected to sober-living residences, disability benefits and employment. Presenters also noted challenges: recruiting staff with the right experience and willingness to work with jail-involved populations, and engaging some clients who decline linkage after release.
Commissioners commented favorably on the partnership between the county jail and Grand Mental Health. The presentation required no board action; Grand Mental Health staff said the program remains operational and will continue reporting outcomes to county leadership.
