01 Sep Press Release: Hinds Behavioral Health Services Awarded Five-Year Grant to Address Homelessness in Hinds County

Jackson, MS – Hinds Behavioral Health Services, a trusted Community Mental Health Center and behavioral health provider, is the recipient of a five-year grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) to launch the transformative Bridge to End Homelessness project.

The Bridge to End Homelessness project will provide behavioral health services for individuals, including youth and families, dealing with substance use disorders (SUDs) and/or co-occurring disorders (CODs), who are currently experiencing homelessness within Hinds County, MS. The multi-faceted approach includes culturally responsive, trauma-informed harm reduction and comprehensive services including SUD and COD treatment provided in-person and/or through telehealth. Homeless services organizations in Hinds County are collaborating with Hinds Behavioral Health Services to identify sustainable permanent housing solutions. Peer-led recovery support services and SOAR-trained case management will be provided. Peer-led recovery support services and case managers will help individuals and families improve their education, employment, healthcare, transportation, and social supports.

The Bridge to End Homelessness project will provide services to 250 individuals, including families during the five-year period. At least 80% of the 250 individuals enrolled will identify as racial, ethnic, and/or LGBTQI+ individuals to address existing behavioral health disparities and improve access to care. The Bridge to End Homelessness project will provide comprehensive screening and assessment for 100% of the 250 individuals enrolled to identify potential trauma, SUD/COD, HIV, and viral hepatitis.  100% of individuals served will be connected to health insurance and/or Medicaid/mainstream benefits using the SOAR model. Following treatment, it is anticipated that 60% of individuals served will improve abstinence; 50% will improve housing stability; 80% will improve social connectedness; 80% will reduce criminal justice involvement and 60% will improve education and employment status, contributing to a healthier recovery oriented community.

“It is an honor to help Hinds Behavioral Health Services continue to save lives and make a significant, positive impact on the lives of individuals and families struggling with addiction and facing homelessness within Hinds County,” said Jackie Griffin, Executive Director of Jackie Sue Griffin & Associates and grant writer for the award. “I look forward to working with the agency to evaluate and promote these transformational success stories and positive behavioral health outcomes.

 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: With more than 51 years of dedicated service, Hinds Behavioral Health Services is a trusted and Community Mental Health Center and behavioral health service provider. Their holistic and trauma-informed approach empowers individuals and families facing behavioral health challenges, including substance use disorders (SUDs) and/or co-occurring disorders (CODs), to sustain recovery and improve quality of life. As a leader in the field, they continually adapt evidence-based interventions to evolving healthcare landscapes, collaborating with partners and stakeholders to drive positive change and reduce disparities.