SMETHPORT — Commissioners announced McKean County is one of five recipients statewide to receive a $3 million grant to establish an Emergency Behavioral Health Crisis Walk-In Center in the county.

The state Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services awarded the grant to the McKean County Department of Human Services (DHS).

Over the past several years, behavioral health concerns have increased while the number of facilities available to assist individuals in crisis has declined.

Residents of McKean and surrounding counties often face significant challenges when traveling outside the county for crisis services. The new Walk-In Center will adhere to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s federal requirements, ensuring a safe place for individuals in crisis to seek immediate support.

DHS will partner with The Guidance Center to establish and operate the Walk-In Center. With more than 30 years of experience delivering crisis services, The Guidance Center is well-positioned to expand its crisis programs to meet the requirements of the new center. Currently, The Guidance Center offers 24/7 crisis services, including walk-in meetings, mobile crisis response and hotline support. The organization also collaborates with the 988 Center to ensure timely and effective assistance for individuals in crisis.

‘Having a safe environment for individuals to receive behavioral health interventions when needed is critical to recovery,’ said Dan Wertz, DHS county administrator.

‘This walk-in center is a true community initiative. The county commissioners and administration, local law enforcement, schools and other service providers have been instrumental in working together to ensure that community members have quick and easy access to the services they need.

We are all committed to serving the residents locally, and this Walk-In Center allows our citizens to remain close to home.’

For more information, contact McKean County Department of Human Services at (814) 887-3350 or visit mckeancountypa.gov.

Additional information is also available through The Guidance Center at (814) 3626535 or guidancecenter. net.