Federal Block Grant Award Summary

The South Carolina Department of Mental Health (SCDMH) received a $4.9M Block Grant for Community Mental Health Services from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Center for Mental Health Services, with an award date of October 1, 2025 and completion date of September 30, 2027 (CFDA 93.958). This two-year block grant supports the delivery of comprehensive community-based mental health services to adults with serious mental illness and children with serious emotional disturbances across South Carolina. Core service offerings include outpatient counseling, crisis intervention, case management, substance abuse treatment, peer support programs, housing assistance, and workforce training initiatives.

SCDMH leverages sub-award partnerships with local entities including the BCD Council of Government, City of Charleston, South Carolina Department of Education, and the State Attorney General's office to expand service reach. The funded programs serve diverse populations including individuals with serious mental illness, youth with emotional disturbances, veterans, and populations experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Grant funds must be expended in accordance with federal requirements, including restrictions on inpatient services and capital improvements, with up to 5 percent of funds allocated for grant administration and 10 percent designated for evidence-based early intervention programs targeting individuals with early serious mental illness, including psychotic disorders.