Support a “Down Payment” for Mental Health Services for All Pennsylvanians
PA Legislators
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Governor Josh Shapiro has proposed a $20 million increase in county mental health base funding. This “down payment” for base funding would be used to rebuild the crumbling mental health system and shore up the social services safety net, providing a comprehensive system that is accessible for all Pennsylvanians.
Pennsylvanians need help. Caseloads for those suffering from many mental illnesses are at unprecedented levels not just because of increased demand, but also because state funding has been insufficient for years.
The state’s “base funding” for these programs has remained flat for more than a decade. Counties have stepped up and invested local dollars to deliver these lifesaving services, Counties have a strong track record in managing efficient, cost-effective programs, but more support from Harrisburg is necessary.
We are calling on state legislators to support the $20M down payment as a first step in repairing the state’s mental health safety net.
Petition by
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Sponsored by
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To:
PA Legislators
From:
[Your Name]
Pennsylvanians struggling with mental health challenges need your support. I am writing to ask you to support a proposed $20 million increase for county base funding for MH supports and services. This funding supports life-saving services for all Pennsylvanians and it has not been increased in more than a decade.
Waiting lists and caseloads for those suffering from mental illness are at unprecedented levels not just because of increased demand, but also because state funding has been insufficient for years. Programs and services have been reduced or eliminated. Counties are grappling with the on-going opioid crisis and the damage from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Please support the proposed $20 million increase in MH Base funding so counties can serve your constituents.
Base funding for these vital community mental health services have remained flat for over a decade. Now is the time to step up for the needs of your constituents by increasing funding for these critical community services in the upcoming budget.