11 Oct Hinds Behavioral Health Services Receives HIV Grant Award from SAMHSA to implement the CARE Program

Hinds Behavioral Health Services Receives HIV Grant Award from SAMHSA to implement the CARE Program

Initiative aims to bolster healthcare engagement for underserved racial and ethnic individuals in Hinds County

Hinds Behavioral Health Services, a renowned mental health and substance use treatment provider with 51 years of distinguished service, has received a grant award from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) in a collaboration with My Brother’s Keeper. The grant will implement the Comprehensive Access to Recovery and Empowerment (CARE) program designed to improve access to racial and ethnic communities in Hinds County, targeting those at high risk of HIV/AIDS and viral hepatitis addressing goals outlined in the Ending the HIV Epidemic in Hinds County, Mississippi.

The CARE program will serve a diverse demographic consisting of individuals aged 18 and over, predominantly those in need of substance use disorder (SUD) and/or co-occurring substance use and mental disorders (COD) outpatient treatment. It emphasizes inclusive outreach with 85% of the target population being African American, 5% Multiracial, 3% Hispanic/Latinx, 85% Male, 2% Transgender, and 8% falling under other categories like Bisexual or Gender Non-Conforming.

“The Hinds Behavioral Health Services and My Brother’s Keeper partnership will ensure quality integrated care for SUD/COD and HIV communities,” says Jackie Sue Griffin of Jackie Sue Griffin & Associates, grant writer and program designer for the award. “By offering wraparound services in conjunction with traditional treatments, they’re creating an environment where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued.”

Using evidence-based practices (EBPs) like Motivational Interviewing, Strengths-Based Case Management, and HIV Navigation Services, among others, the CARE program will ensure improved behavioral health outcomes, including the prevention of new HIV and viral hepatitis infections. The CARE program will enroll 50 individuals annually, totaling 250 individuals within five years.

CARE will ensure behavioral health screening, trauma-informed outpatient treatment, HIV and viral hepatitis testing, and linkage to essential services. With strengths-based case management, the program further supports clients by connecting them to housing, education, employment, and peer recovery support, ensuring a comprehensive approach to recovery and empowerment.

 About Jackie Sue Griffin & Associates: Jackie Sue Griffin & Associates is a leading consulting firm specializing in behavioral health, healthcare and social services and assists with grant writing, program development, evaluation, capacity building and professional development. With a commitment to creating positive and lasting change, the firm collaborates with organizations to secure grants, develop effective strategies, and implement transformative programs. For more information, visit jsg-associates.com.

About Hinds Behavioral Health Services: Established over 51 years ago, Hinds Behavioral Health Services stands as a pillar of excellence in the realm of substance use treatment and mental health care. Dedicated to uplifting communities, Hinds has made significant strides in serving racial and ethnic populations at risk, ensuring they have access to top-tier medical services and support. Their longstanding commitment and track record have made them an invaluable asset to the community of Hinds County.