The Florida Department of Children and Families has awarded a $1.2 million to Gadsden County for a new CriminalJustice Diversion Project. The County will partner with the FAMU Department of Social Work to providecomprehensive support services to for citizens with untreated mental health and substance abuse challenges that couldfall into the criminal justice system.
“Everyone should have access to high-quality behavioral health services,” said DCF Secretary Chad Poppell. “Withthis $1.2 million grant, as well as support from the Governor and First Lady, Gadsden County can ensure men andwomen who have been incarcerated or are at risk of entering deeper into the criminal justice system are offered thoseservices and an opportunity to have full, productive lives. We look forward to seeing the meaningful and potentiallymonumental impact that this grant will have here over the next three years.”
“This new diversion program in Gadsden County is a strong step in the right direction for people ensnared in thecriminal justice system due to untreated mental or substance abuse issues, and the collaboration with our Department ofSocial Work will help ensure sound care coordination of wraparound services,” said Dr. Gari D. Tookes, Director ofFAMU’s Master of Social Work Program. “FAMU is honored to join with Gadsden County to provide services andcounseling to help people change the trajectory of their health and lives.”
