Transitional Mental Health Project

The Congressionally Recommended Awards Program, authorized by the Department of Justice Appropriations Act, 2010 (Pub. L. 111-117), helps improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and/or assist victims of crime (other than compensation). Funds should be used for the projects recommended by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-117, and generally consistent with one or more of the following statutory purposes: improving the functioning of the criminal justice system, preventing or combating juvenile delinquency, or assisting victims of crime (other than compensation). Each of these purposes is framed using language drawn, respectively, from the former Byrne discretionary statute, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 2010 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY 2010 Department of Justice Appropriations Act.

The Iowa Department of Corrections will use this award for the sustainment of the Transitional Mental Health Reentry Program in Iowa's first and sixth judicial district Departments of Correctional Services. The grant will be used to fund evidence-based transitional funding for community-based mentally ill and dual-diagnosed offenders. Specifically, it will pay for the salary and fringe benefits of two Probation & Parole Officers, who will serve as mental health reentry program managers. It will also pay for the provision of services for the offenders, such as psychiatric appointments and medications and financial assistance with their housing, utilities, and transportation costs.

NCA/NCF