Latest news with #RVBH
Yahoo
19-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
RVBH receives $1.5M grant to enhance suicide, crisis hotline
RiverValley Behavioral Health (RVBH) has been awarded $1.5 million by the Kentucky Department of Behavioral Health to enhance the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline network. The funding will enable the expansion of 24/7 chat and text services across Kentucky, improving access to critical mental health and crisis support for individuals throughout the state. 'RiverValley Behavioral Health submitted a strong proposal showcasing our deep expertise in crisis response, extensive resources and ability to scale services statewide,' said Dr. Wanda Figueroa, RVBH president and CEO. 'Our long-standing commitment to compassionate, high-quality crisis care positioned us as the right choice, and we are honored to be entrusted with this responsibility to serve the entire commonwealth.' The Kentucky Department for Behavioral Health, Developmental, and Intellectual Disabilities (DBHDID) issued a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to expand 988 crisis chat and text services across the state. This funding was established to address the increasing demand for crisis support and ensure that every Kentuckian can access immediate, confidential mental health assistance through the communication method that feels most comfortable — phone, text, or chat. Since the launch of 988 — the national three-digit mental health crisis line — in July 2022, the number of Kentuckians utilizing chat and text services has grown dramatically. According to DBHDID, in the first year alone, texts surged by 160% (from 452 to 1,174) and chats increased by 138% (from 333 to 782). By 2024, 988 texts and chats in Kentucky are projected to reach nearly 25,000 contacts — an average of 1,800 interactions per month. Figueroa said RVBH was selected for this critical role because of its proven track record in providing high-quality, accessible crisis services, which includes more than 20 years as a trusted leader in mental health crisis response, its crisis services being accredited by CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities), and the launch of Kentucky's first 24/7 mobile mental health crisis team, among other factors. Beyond crisis response, RVBH has experience providing statewide support services for problem gambling. It was selected by the Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling to operate the statewide problem gambling helpline, further proving its ability to deliver specialized mental health support at a statewide level. 'Our ability to quickly adapt to emerging needs also played a key role in our selection,' Figueroa said. 'We have seen a significant shift in how people seek help, particularly among younger individuals, who increasingly prefer text and chat over phone calls. These platforms provide a greater sense of privacy, security, and accessibility, making it easier for individuals to reach out for support. Because of our existing infrastructure, experienced staff, and commitment to meeting people where they are, we were well-prepared to take on this essential role for the entire state. 'Most importantly, this opportunity would not have been possible without our incredible Crisis Support Team. Their compassion, dedication and expertise form the foundation of the high-quality, lifesaving care we provide every day. It is their excellence that will drive this program forward.' RVBH will continue to operate its own crisis line while also taking on this expanded role as Kentucky's statewide 988 chat and text responder. The additional funding will allow RVBH to hire and train 15 new staff members, ensuring that every chat and text through 988 is answered by highly trained professionals equipped to support individuals in crisis. 'To support this new initiative, we will create a dedicated unit within our crisis team that will focus specifically on 988 chat and text services,' Figueroa said. 'This means that our existing crisis line services will not be affected — instead, this is an opportunity to enhance and expand access for people who prefer to reach out through text or chat. 'Our crisis responders will receive specialized training in how to effectively support and engage with individuals seeking help through digital communication. Responding to a crisis via text is different from a phone call, and we are committed to ensuring our team is fully equipped to provide the best care possible. By adding this service, we are giving more people in Kentucky more ways to access help — when they need it, how they need it.' Figueroa said there are several key factors that have contributed to the increase in 988 crisis calls, texts, and chats, including increased awareness and accessibility, youth and digital communication preferences, economic and social stress, loneliness and isolation and substance use and co-occurring disorders. 'This grant is about more than just expanding services — it's about saving lives,' she said. 'It ensures that every Kentuckian, no matter where they live, has access to immediate, professional mental health support when they need it most. 'I want to acknowledge the Kentucky Department for Behavioral Health, Developmental, and Intellectual Disabilities (DBHDID) for their leadership in expanding crisis services and setting a national example in making mental health care more accessible. Their dedication to breaking down barriers to care is truly making a meaningful difference in people's lives.' Figueroa said the initiative will be led by Michelle Nobles, RVBH vice president of outpatient and crisis services, and Dr. Lionel Phelps, RVBH vice president of population health. She said their leadership, expertise and dedication will ensure that RVBH's team continues to provide the highest level of care to those in need. 'We recognize the critical role that mental health and crisis services play in the well-being of our communities,' Nobles said. 'This funding will allow us to provide immediate, compassionate, and locally focused care for individuals in distress. We're proud to be part of Kentucky's commitment to mental health, and we're ready to ensure that every person who reaches out to 988 receives the support they deserve, from highly trained professionals right here in the commonwealth.'
Yahoo
17-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
RiverValley crisis hotline to be available statewide with $1.5 million award
HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) — The Kentucky Department of Behavioral Health has awarded $1.5 million to RiverValley Behavioral Health to enhance its 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline network. Officials say this is a 24/7 chat and text service in Kentucky. They say the funding will have RVBH become the dedicated responder for the entire state, allowing more people to have access to immediate support. Currently, RVBH only answers regional calls. 'This award will allow us to significantly enhance the support we provide to Kentuckians in crisis, offering a vital lifeline during moments of need,' says President & CEO Dr. Wanda Figueroa. 'We are honored to lead this critical initiative, expanding our services to reach even more individuals across the state. This contract demonstrates our ongoing commitment to saving lives and strengthening mental health services in Kentucky.' Officials say the project is set to be fully operational and available statewide by July. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
07-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
RiverValley, Neblett Center partner to receive $50K grant
RiverValley Behavioral Health (RVBH), in partnership with the H.L. Neblett Community Center, has received a $50,000 grant from the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky to support the expansion of peer support, prevention and mental health services. 'We really wanted to extend our reach into the community, and we had not done a whole lot of partnerships with the Neblett Center, so I think we were trying to increase our significance in servicing our local community center,' said Dr. Lionel Phelps, RVBH's vice president of population health. 'That's really kind of how it came about. We weren't specifically targeting anyone, but the Neblett Center was kind of who we thought would be perfect to provide more mental health resources and public education. We've been trying to do more.' The partnership will enable RVBH to place a peer support specialist at the Neblett Center, enhancing access to mental health services in the Northwest Neighborhood. The initiative seeks to ensure vital support reaches those who need it most by improving access to mental health care for underserved populations. 'We are excited to share this wonderful news and to collaborate with the H.L. Neblett Center, a trusted and vital community partner, to expand access to mental health services,' said Dr. Wanda Figueroa-Peralta, RVBH's president and CEO. 'This grant will play a key role in reducing health disparities and fostering healthier communities. 'Rather than focusing solely on treating illness, we are also focusing on prevention, early intervention and health promotion to improve long-term health outcomes.' A peer support specialist is a person with a lived experience either in mental health or substance use who is in recovery. Phelps said they are 'very effective' in helping others. 'They go through a week-long training course and certification process,' Phelps said. 'They're very effective reaching individuals by sharing their story of recovery, similar circumstances and increased empathy through having a shared experience.' Phelps said the grant represents a powerful step forward in RVBH's efforts to build bridges of support within the Owensboro community and to establish population health principles. 'This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to fostering trust, breaking down barriers to care and ensuring that individuals and families feel seen, heard and supported in their mental health journeys,' he said. 'Population health encourages collaboration across healthcare systems, public health agencies, social services and community organizations to provide holistic and patient-centered care. 'This is a step in that direction in order to maximize impact and healthy outcomes for youth and families.' The H.L. Neblett Center offers a variety of services, including recreational programs, after-school enrichment and mature adult programs. It's also the home of Western Academy, an academic program designed for African American and biracial male youth in grades 3 through 12. Maritza Meeks, executive director of the Neblett Center, said it's honored to partner with RVBH in offering targeted workshops for the Owensboro community. 'The $50,000 Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky grant plays a critical role in advancing our mental health and substance use prevention efforts,' she said. 'With this support, we can expand existing programs and introduce new initiatives focused on educating the community, increasing access to vital mental health services and assisting individuals impacted by substance use. This funding will also enable us to offer staff training, facilitate workshops and enhance our outreach efforts. 'Above all, it has strengthened our partnerships with local organizations, creating a robust support network that contributes to the overall health and well-being of the community.' The first workshop will be held from 5:30-7 p.m. Feb. 19 at the Neblett Center. The focus will be on self-care strategies for emotional resilience. It's free and open to the public. The Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky is committed to improving the health of Kentuckians through strategic investments in programs that focus on addressing health disparities, improving access to care and promoting healthier lifestyles. More information about the foundation's initiatives can be found at
