Formula Grant X98SM090408

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) awarded a $1,064,915 Formula Grant under the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI) program to Disability Rights Mississippi. This two-year grant, effective from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2026, enables the organization to provide legal advocacy, rights protection, and support services for individuals with mental illness in the state of Mississippi.

The PAIMI program aims to safeguard the independence, productivity, and community participation of people with mental health conditions through comprehensive advocacy services. Disability Rights Mississippi, as the designated Protection and Advocacy organization for the state, will utilize this funding to investigate potential rights violations, deliver legal representation, and promote systemic improvements in mental health care and individual support. The grant also allows the organization to engage in sub-grant work, such as providing advocacy assistance to children in the special education system and addressing challenges like mask mandates, virtual learning, and healthcare service access during crisis periods.