U.S. House of Representatives approves $1.65 million to support Middlesex County Restoration Center

The funding was included as part of a package of FY 2022 appropriations bills advanced by the House on July 29. MAMH President & CEO Danna Mauch and Middlesex County Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian thanked Congresswoman Lori Trahan for her leadership in securing the funding.

"Each day, members of law enforcement are called upon to respond to situations in which individuals are experiencing a behavioral health crisis," said Koutoujian. "Establishing this center will provide law enforcement in Middlesex County a greater opportunity to divert individuals away from the criminal justice system and into treatment – improving outcomes for individuals, their families and all those who live and work in our communities.”

Mauch noted that Congresswoman's Trahan's support is critical to the next phase of the planned project, which includes piloting a Restoration Center model to reduce arrest and hospitalization for some of our most vulnerable neighbors. "I am excited to work with her on obtaining this critical funding to make these needed services a reality,” she said.

Next, the U.S. Senate will take up the appropriations bill, with any differences being ironed out in a conference committee before being sent to the President for signature.