Barbara's House In Greenwich Receives Summer Mental Health Grant

GREENWICH, CT — Barbara's House, the social service agency in Greenwich dedicated to building skills for clients to overcome educational, social and economic barriers, will receive $85,000 from the state to support the delivery of mental health programming during the summer months over the next two years.

The money is part of $2 million in grants released this week to 36 local and regional school districts, youth camp operators, and other summer programs by Gov. Ned Lamont and Education Chairman Charlene Russell-Tucker.

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Awarded under the Connecticut State Department of Education’s Summer Mental Health Supports Grant program, the grants for each district and summer camp program range from $17,000 to $85,000.

This competitive grant program is utilizing funding the state received from the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

This is the third of three rounds of grants the department has issued with ARPA funding that are aimed at increasing access to mental health support services for Connecticut’s youths. Eligible costs incurred beginning in summer 2024 through summer 2025 are reimbursable under this grant program.

"The need for mental health services for our youth continues year-round, and by enhancing existing programs and creating new initiatives tailored to their needs, we are investing in the future success and well-being of Connecticut’s youth," Lamont said in a news release. "The collaboration between school districts, summer camps, and mental health professionals is key to this effort, ensuring that our students receive the necessary support during these critical periods."

Russell-Tucker said the grants help ensure mental health services year-round, an U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) said the investment will make "a life-changing difference" in the lives of thousands of children across Connecticut.

"Access to care, especially during the summer, is critical to tackling the mental health crisis plaguing our youth and I am proud to have fought for the American Rescue Plan funding that is supporting this critical program," Blumenthal said. "I will keep advocating for more resources to support children’s mental health services, and commend Governor Lamont and Commissioner Russell-Tucker for their leadership."