Award Information
Description of original award (Fiscal Year 2024, $550,000)
The County of Kauai Office of the Prosecuting Attorney proposes to implement a robust mental health diversion program. The purpose is to connect justice-involved individuals with mental health disorders and co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders with Hoola Lahui Hawaii, a mental health treatment provider on Kauai. Project activities include creating and implementing a valid screening and assessment tool to identify program participants, designing a culturally specific program for Native Hawaiian participants, hiring or assigning a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney to implement and oversee the diversion program, engagement with the community about the program, and collecting and sharing data regarding program outcomes.
Priority consideration under 1B. Hoola Lahui Hawaii is designated as the Native Hawaiian Health Care System for the County of Kauai in addition to being designated as a Federally Qualified Health Center by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. As a Native Hawaiian Health Care System, Hoola Lahui Hawaii has a specific focus on serving the needs of Native Hawaiians and their families. Priority consideration under Category 2 is also being sought. Validated assessment tools will be used to identify and prioritize individuals with a moderate or high risk of recidivism and a need for treatment services. There are no planned conference activities for the recommended award.