ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – We are helping Winnebago County residents get back on their feet and assisting those struggling with mental illness and addiction issues.
The Winnebago County Community Mental Health Commission has received a $1.9 million grant to rehabilitate unhoused community members.
The Rockford City Council Finance and Human Resources Committee will accept the grant on behalf of the County Mental Health Board.
“This is a grant to help people who need a second chance,” said Rockford City Councilwoman Aprile Planty. “The downside is that he wanted it sooner, to help people sooner. People all need a second chance, and in some cases he may need a third chance.” Therefore, these support mechanisms need to be in place.”
Finance and Human Resources Committee Chairman Kevin Frost said the funding will allow the city to expand its resources.
“City staff will be hiring about five navigators to strictly address the homeless population and mental health,” Frost said. “Their roles are varied and include not only government, but also actually working directly with the homeless community to support their needs.”
The grant, funded by the county’s half-cent sales tax, also supports other County Mental Health Commission projects, such as Boys & Girls Club social skills sessions and the county’s Jail Behavioral Program.
The county would receive nearly $20 million in total revenue from the half-cent sales tax.
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