Bridgeway Center has been awarded a five-year grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to address the needs of homeless individuals with serious mental health conditions in Okaloosa County.

• The grant will fund the Treatment of Individuals Experiencing Homelessness Project, which aims to serve 50 individuals annually, totaling 250 people over the five-year period. The program is set to begin on Oct. 1, 2024.

Bonnie Barlow, President and CEO of Bridgeway Center, said, “This grant will provide resources for our community that will further assist those individuals who are experiencing homelessness. We know these services will result in more people finding homes and remaining successfully housed.”

The project will focus on providing comprehensive behavioral health treatment, case management, and recovery support services. Key components include connecting participants with behavioral health treatment, supporting recovery across four dimensions – Health, Home, Purpose, and Community – and collaborating with homeless service organizations to secure sustainable permanent housing.

• Goals of the program include reducing homelessness rates, ensuring effective treatment for at least 50% of those served, enhancing stability for individuals in Permanent Supportive Housing, strengthening collaboration with homeless organizations, and improving outreach efforts.

Bridgeway Center will work alongside community partners to provide therapists and case managers who will work specifically with homeless individuals in Okaloosa County, both in the community and at local shelters.

The grant represents a significant investment in addressing homelessness and mental health challenges in Okaloosa County, aiming to improve the quality of life for some of the area’s most vulnerable residents.

“We are so grateful for the opportunity to work alongside our community partners who are already doing amazing work for those experiencing homelessness,” Barlow added.