BJA Veterans Discretionary grant program to be used to expand and enhance our existing Veterans Court Program

The 25th Judicial Circuit of Missouri is requesting Veterans Court Discretionary Grant Program funds in the amount of $199,983.40 over a 48-month period to enhance the existing Veterans Court program.  Their Veterans Court has been assisting veterans in the 25th Judicial Circuit with successful and appropriate rehabilitation from use issues related to drugs and/or alcohol since 2012.  Their program has a maximum capacity of 25.  The intended use of federal funding will be to provide adequate and appropriate services for veterans residing within the 25th Circuit and jurisdictions within close proximity to the program to enable them to have the best chance for recovery.  We will also be using the funding to ensure that team members are provided the opportunity to receive additional training, including training to assist our program in addressing the issues related to racial equity and the removal of barriers to access and opportunity for communities that have been historically marginalized, underserved and adversely affected by inequality.  In the last year we have had several new team members changes in which the new members have had either no training or very limited training.  Our funding proposal goals will be accomplished by complying with all 10 Key Components designed for Veterans Court programs.  Our compliance with the 10 Key Components in this funding proposal are found on pages 6 through 13 of our Program Strategy Narrative.The type of funding being requested is:  • Enhancement funds • The 25th Judicial Circuit is a rural community.• Funds will be used for their local jurisdiction.• Amount requested is $200,000.00• An estimated 25 participants will be served annually in Veterans Court• Funds will be used to enhance the Post-Plea Veterans Court • Enhancements for participants include emotional support services, medical and dental; employment assistance support; and remote court and treatment access. • Successful program completion is 12 months, the average length of time for completion.• The target population is high risk - high needs individuals.  Access to MAT and services to address opioid, stimulant, and other substance use disorders are readily available at the regional VA hospital and the local VA outpatient clinics• No other federal funding sources are being leveraged.• The 25th Circuit has active federal funds from BJA grant 2019-MU-BX-0070, and the completion date is September 30, 2022.