Stratford Schools Awarded Mental Health Grant

STRATFORD, CT — The Stratford School District was awarded an $85,000 grant for mental health programming for students during the summer months over the next two years, according to officials.

Gov. Ned Lamont and Connecticut Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker announced Monday the release of more than $2 million in grants for 36 school districts and summer camp programs across Connecticut.

The grants for each district or camp range from $17,000 to $85,000. The program uses funding from the federal American Rescue Plan Act. This is the third round of grants via the federal program, all of which are aimed at increasing access to mental health support services for Connecticut’s youths.

“Thank you to Gov. Ned Lamont and Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker for their attention to our region’s youth mental health needs,” State Sen. Kevin Kelly (R-Stratford) said. “Increasing access to mental health support services for Connecticut’s children must be our shared goal. Thank you as well to our federal congressional delegation for their ongoing commitment to support mental health care access in our communities.”

State Rep. Laura Dancho (R-Stratford) said, “As a longtime advocate for fully funding our Stratford schools, I join the governor and our congressional colleagues in celebrating the prioritization of our local students at the federal level. I am most grateful to see this support directly aid our students, helping them overcome mental health challenges and experience a quality, well-rounded education.”

Lamont said in a statement, “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. 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.”

U.S. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-3) said the grants represent “more than financial support, they are a lifeline that will help create a safer, more nurturing environment for our youth during the summer months and beyond.”

“The mental health of our youth is a priority that transcends the school year,” DeLauro said. “Collaboration between school districts, community programs, and mental health professionals is vital in addressing the ongoing mental health needs of our students. By funding these essential programs, we are ensuring that students have access to the support they need, no matter the season.”