Michigan DHHS Receives Federal Grant to Enhance Juvenile Justice System

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has announced a significant development in its efforts to improve the juvenile justice system. On Friday, the department revealed that it has been awarded an $825,000 grant by the United States Department of Justice, aimed at expanding treatment options for young individuals who are involved in or at risk of involvement in the juvenile justice system. This financial boost will support the DHHS’s “Building Local Continuums of Care to Support Youth Success” project. The initiative is designed to offer a comprehensive range of services, from prevention to intervention, for at-risk youth and their families. The project outlines several key activities, including the establishment of a juvenile justice planning council. This council will focus on reducing the number of youths in detention or secure residential placements by employing strategies such as prevention, intervention, diversion, and reentry services. Additionally, the project will prioritize the identification of evidence-based practices and culturally appropriate strategies to enhance the long-term well-being and success of the youth. Another significant aspect of the project is the development of strategies to evaluate the economic impact of these reforms. The aim is to identify cost savings and determine how these funds...