Dan Kildee announces $600K funding to expand behavioral health services at Hamilton Health Network

FLINT, Michigan — U.S. Congressman Dan Kildee has announced $600,000 in new federal funding for Hamilton Community Health Network (HCHN), aimed at expanding critical mental health and substance use disorder services in Mid-Michigan.

The funding is part of a broader effort to ensure that all Michiganders, regardless of their income or location, have access to affordable, high-quality healthcare services, especially in underserved communities.

This federal investment will allow HCHN to enhance its behavioral health services, including mental health care and substance use disorder treatment, integrated with primary care services.

The expansion comes at a crucial time when communities across Michigan and the nation are grappling with increasing mental health challenges and substance use issues, further intensified by the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In his announcement, Congressman Kildee emphasized the importance of ensuring equitable access to behavioral health care for all Michigan residents.

“Every Michigander — regardless of their zip code — should have access to the health care services they need, including mental health and substance use disorder treatment,” said Kildee. “I’m proud to support Hamilton Community Health Network’s work to help ensure we deliver on that promise for all mid-Michigan families.”

Hamilton’s CEO, Clarence R. Pierce, echoed the congressman’s sentiment, noting the positive impact the funding will have on the network’s ability to meet the growing needs of the communities it serves.

“This funding will have a positive impact on Hamilton’s ability to expand quality, affordable behavioral health care services to the communities we serve,” said Pierce. “This includes mental health services for individuals and families as well as treatment for substance use disorder, integrated in a primary care model. We are thankful for Congressman Kildee’s long-standing support of community health centers, especially Hamilton Community Health Network.”

The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) FY24 Behavioral Health Service Expansion Grant Program. This initiative enables lawmakers to directly allocate resources for high-impact projects in their districts, targeting local needs.

Hamilton Community Health Network, which operates seven health centers across Genesee and Lapeer counties, serves as a lifeline for thousands of Mid-Michigan residents, particularly those from low-income or uninsured households.

Hamilton’s expanded services will include individual and family therapy, psychiatric services, and addiction recovery programs. By integrating behavioral health with primary care, the health network aims to reduce the stigma often associated with mental health and substance use disorders, encouraging more individuals to seek help early.

The funding will also support Hamilton’s ongoing efforts to hire additional mental health professionals and expand community outreach.

Hamilton Community Health Network provides low-cost or free health screenings, depending on your health insurance and income. Learn more by visiting HamiltonCHN.org online or by calling 810-406-4246.