Introduction
PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, MD — A significant step towards strengthening student mental health and wellness has been announced with a $25 million grant from the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission. This initiative aims to provide expanded access to crucial mental health resources for Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) students starting the 2024-2025 school year.
Partnerships for Enhanced Services
The funding will enable PGCPS to collaborate with 18 different organizations, granting students improved access to mental health support services. PGCPS Superintendent Millard House II expressed his gratitude, stating, ‘We are grateful for this new funding, which will allow PGCPS to enhance mental health and wellness resources across the district, ensuring all students have access to vital services.’
The new partnerships will complement the existing resources provided by school counselors and psychologists. They will specifically focus on crisis intervention, mental wellness education, and facilitating access to professional care.
Innovative Support Initiatives
Hazel Health continues to offer free virtual physical and mental health support accessible to all PGCPS students. Additionally, iMind Behavioral Health is set to introduce a mobile response team providing immediate assistance to students in crisis.
Uneo Health will launch a self-care app called Prosper, allowing students and staff tracking their moods and habits while accessing a variety of wellness resources.
Targeted Assistance for Diverse Needs
Other organizations involved include AprilMay, Inc., which will focus on early childhood developmental support, and Sheppard Pratt, expanding their team to provide individual and family therapy. Spectrum of Hope will also contribute by offering navigation services for youth with diverse behavioral health needs.
Luminis Health will enhance school-wide mental health literacy programs, while Community Advocates for Family & Youth, Inc. (CAFY) and EveryMind, Inc. will facilitate individual, family, and group therapy and education aimed at improving overall student well-being.
Specialized Support Services
For high school students, Hyacinth Wellness will implement substance use disorder prevention programs, and La Clínica del Pueblo will expand mental health support for the Latino community. Specialized counseling services will also be available for LGBTQ+ youth and students in foster care through Paths for Families and SMYAL.
In total, these new services aim to strengthen the behavioral health infrastructure of PGCPS, ensuring that all students have the necessary support to thrive in their educational environment.
Conclusion
The implementation of these enhancements will commence in the upcoming months, reflecting a concerted effort by local authorities and community organizations to prioritize student health and academic success.
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