HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) – Midstate county leaders are beginning to reduce a nearly $2 million deficit in a mental health services system they say is on the brink of collapse. As a result, they are asking Gov. Josh Shapiro for an additional $250 million in funding.
“The need for services has exploded, but we have not seen a significant increase in funding,” said Michael Rivera, Berks County Commissioner and CCAP Chairman. “We are at a critical juncture in Pennsylvania when it comes to mental health services, and this should concern everyone in the commonwealth.”
Perry and Cumberland counties have seen mental health-related 911 calls increase by more than 10 percent, suicide rates have doubled, waiting lists for mental health support have increased, and more than 80 people are seeking treatment in the past year. He says he is waiting.
Annie Streit, mental health administrator for Cumberland and Perry counties, said, “Some people are waiting in the emergency department, causing frustration and transition difficulties, and some are waiting in homeless shelters, and others are ending up in jail.” There are some people who will be affected,” he said.
To make matters worse, counties say they are short-staffed.
“We need to make sure that positions that have been vacant for a year are filled with great people with great skill sets who can help others,” Streit said.
The county argues that without more funding, the crisis will only worsen.
“We don’t have time for political posturing. We don’t have the luxury of bickering and playing games about something as important as the mental health of our people,” Rivera said. “Awareness is a great tool, but ultimately you have to turn that awareness into action.”
ABC27 has reached out to Gov. Josh Shapiro for comment. His team did not respond.
