Texas county accepts grant to help inmates with mental health issues

By Maleri McHam
Tyler Morning Telegraph

SMITH COUNTY, Texas — Smith County commissioners on Tuesday accepted a grant to hire an advocate to help with those struggling with mental health in the county jail.

The grant from Texas Judicial Commission on Mental Health for the Community Diversion Coordinator Pilot Program effectively allows the county to hire someone as an advocate for individuals in the county jail dealing with mental health issues.

The professionals can help those incarcerated with mental health issues understand what resources are available and connect them to said resources and help them move through the judicial process that takes into consideration their alleged crime and mental health, Moran explained.

FULL STORY: Smith County accepts grant to help inmates with mental health issues