Lucas County Boosts Funding for Youth Mental Health Services in Juvenile Detention Center
TOLEDO, Ohio — New funding has been approved to enhance mental health services for youth detained in the Lucas County Juvenile Detention Center. The initiative aims to provide treatment and supportive programs for children behind bars, shifting the focus from mere confinement to productive care.
On Monday, Lucas County Commissioners authorized additional resources to support partnerships between the county, the court system, and mental health organizations. Key recipients of the funding include the Zepf Center and Unison, which will provide comprehensive mental health services within the juvenile facility.
Marcie Garlick, deputy court administrator, explained that the funding will be divided between crisis mental health interventions and ongoing treatment efforts. “Between the commissioners, the court and Zepf Center to provide mental health services,” Garlick said.
The Zepf Center will receive an initial portion of the funding to deliver mental health treatment at the youth treatment center, while Unison will be funded to provide crisis mental health services directly at the juvenile detention facility. The financial support comes from the Lucas County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board as well as the detention center’s operational budget.
Said Orra, court administrator, highlighted the importance of early assessment for detained youth. “The idea is to assess a child when they come to the facility and see what the needs are,” Orra said. If a child requires services that can be administered at home, those services will begin promptly.
The plan also includes follow-up discharge planning and continued support after a child leaves the detention center, aiming to facilitate smoother reintegration and reduce recidivism.
This collaborative effort reflects a growing recognition of the critical role mental health care plays in juvenile justice and the community’s commitment to supporting vulnerable youth.
