Trust Avenues to keep you in the loop.
Avenues Recovery Center is a drug and alcohol rehab in Pennsylvania with 15 locations spanning seven U.S. states. Our robust blog is the go-to place for all things addiction-related – be it information, news, or resources in Pennsylvania, we’ll keep you current with everything trending in your area.
When it comes to addiction, go to the go-to.
In a significant move to enhance the well-being of students across the state, Pennsylvania has allocated $120 million in grants aimed at improving mental health and safety in schools. The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) announced on November 27, 2024, that nearly $20 million of this funding will support mental health programs and safety measures in hundreds of private schools, including Catholic and other religious institutions. This investment is part of a larger initiative designed to help schools across the state address critical issues impacting students’ mental and emotional health, as well as improve safety protocols within school buildings.
The Pennsylvania Capital Star noted that of the total $120 million, $100 million will be distributed to 779 public school entities, which include school districts, charter schools, intermediate units, and career and technical schools. Governor Josh Shapiro, in a statement about the grants, underscored the importance of providing students with the necessary resources to cope with mental health challenges. “I’ve listened to our kids as they’ve told me about their mental health struggles—that’s why my administration is getting real help to students all across Pennsylvania quickly,” he said. These funds have already been used to put essential mental health resources in place and improve school safety measures through law enforcement and security vendor support.
Student mental health has become a top priority for both state lawmakers and the Shapiro administration. A 2021 survey of Pennsylvania students found that 40% of participants reported experiencing symptoms of depression, while 75% of calls to the state's Safe2Say Something anonymous tip line were from students seeking help for themselves or others. Recognizing the seriousness of this issue, Governor Shapiro announced a five-year, $500 million initiative in May 2023 to provide comprehensive mental health support to students, ensuring that schools have the resources necessary to support students both academically and emotionally.
The newly awarded funding is already being put to use in various ways across the state. For example, Conemaugh Township in Somerset County has hired school police officers and mental health clinicians, while Bellefonte Area School District in Centre County has used the funds to purchase radios and equipment for security staff and social workers. These examples reflect how schools are using the grants to create a safer and more supportive environment for their students.
The $120 million in grants is part of a broader educational reform effort. It follows a landmark 2023 ruling by the Commonwealth Court, which declared Pennsylvania’s education funding system unconstitutional due to its heavy reliance on property taxes. The court’s decision highlighted how students in lower-income districts were being left behind when it came to access to educational resources. In response to this, the state has approved a $1.1 billion increase in education funding, including the $120 million for school safety and mental health programs. This funding aims to help level the playing field for the state’s less affluent districts and ensure that every student has access to a quality education.
With these grants, Pennsylvania is making a clear commitment to the future of its children. By addressing both mental health concerns and school safety, the state is providing schools with the tools they need to create environments where students feel protected, valued, and ready to learn. As these efforts continue to take shape, Pennsylvania is not only improving its education system but also demonstrating its dedication to the well-being of all its students. These initiatives promise to have a lasting impact on the lives of children and families across the state, ensuring that schools remain spaces where learning and growth are supported by safety and mental health care.
If you or a loved one are struggling with your mental health or addiction, reach out to Avenues Recovery today. Our admissions team is waiting for your call, and will guide you through the options available for you. We have helped thousands of people overcome their addictions and reclaim their quality of life, and can help you too. Contact us today to begin your journey to your happier, healthier and sober future.