Georgia planning $1M in grants for military mental health services

(The Center Square) — Georgia officials are awarding $1 million in grants to increase mental health access for military members, veterans and their families.

Last year, state lawmakers passed House Bill 414 to create the Veterans Mental Health Services Program under the Georgia Department of Veterans Service. Republican Gov. Brian Kemp signed the measure into law on April 25, 2023.

Lawmakers appropriated the first round of the grant's funding as part of the amended fiscal 2024 budget. They included the $1 million for the latest grant funding as part of the Department of Veterans Services' $56.1 million fiscal 2025 budget.

"Programs like this one are critical to supporting our community providers who work every day to improve access to services for our military service members, veterans and their families," Republican Lt. Governor Burt Jones said in a statement. "This includes expanding access for mental health services, which are essential for our brave men and women who continue to put their lives on the line for us. These heroes deserve our ultimate gratitude and support."

During a recent Senate Study Committee on Veterans' Mental Health and Housing hearing, lawmakers highlighted HB 414 and the state funding as part of the conversation on veterans' mental health and homelessness, which are often related.

"It's a heartbreaking and urgent crisis, especially here in Georgia, because on any night, … tens of thousands of veterans are homeless," Patricia Ross, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Veterans Service. "They're sleeping on the streets in shelter, temporary or unsafe housing.

"These are the very individuals who once stood on our front lines defending our nation, but they face the harsh reality of not having a home, which is often accompanied by mental health struggles, physical disabilities and a lack of support systems, which is why they've gotten to this point.

"…I see it as a profound moral failing because these individuals deserve more than our gratitude, more than a 'thank you for your service,'" Ross added. "I believe they deserve our action, our unwavering support because they've upheld their duty to support our country, and it's our duty to serve them in a time of need. So, understanding the root causes of homelessness is crucial."