Ladisch Douglass Highlights New Mental Health Investment in Local Schools

WESTMONT, Ill. – State Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, D-Elmhurst, is applauding new youth mental health service funding recently announced by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) that will go toward supporting area students.

“Youth mental health is increasingly receiving the attention and prioritization it deserves,” Ladisch Douglass said. “Particularly in the wake of a pandemic that had a significant effect on children across our community, these are helpful resources that will help local districts in their efforts to support students.”

Salt Creek School District 48, School District 45, Marquardt School District 15 and Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 are each in line to receive grants worth $249,000 in support of youth mental health services. The grants are being issued through IDPH under state dollars and funding authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Overall, the grant program is committing $9.5 million to 40 applicants across the state for various programs – including hiring mental health professionals, counseling, educator training, suicide awareness and prevention, specialized curriculum and more.

“I appreciate the commitment from our local districts to secure resources that can make a difference in the lives of their students,” Ladisch Douglass. “It’s critical that the state continues to value and support investment in these efforts.”

For more information, please contact Office.RepJLD@gmail.com or 630-413-1080