Big Sky Times

Governor Greg Gianforte has announced a $700,000 investment aimed at expanding peer support services for families and caregivers of youth with serious emotional disturbances in Montana. This initiative follows recommendations from the Behavioral Health System for Future Generations Commission and is part of a broader $300 million funding plan to reform the state's behavioral health and developmental disabilities services.

"This investment addresses specific needs for Montana families who are raising a child with behavioral health challenges," stated Governor Gianforte. "Families have expressed the importance of family peer support, and how it can make a difference in their lives."

The funding will be distributed among AWARE, Inc., Mental Health America of Montana, Montana Rescue Mission, and St. John’s United. These organizations were selected based on their experience in providing family peer support services.

The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) estimates that each full-time peer supporter will manage about 20-30 families. DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton highlighted the significance of this service: "Family peer support services provide crucial backing to caretakers and allow them to remain mentally, physically, and spiritually healthy."

A study by Montana’s Peer Network revealed that 94% of Montanans receiving these services reported an improved quality of life, while 87% noted better care quality for their children.

Morgan Hove from Montana Rescue Mission shared her personal experiences: “I didn’t have a strong support system when my son was younger... One of my goals for this grant is to help families build confidence and connection.”

This funding aims to address unmet needs for families raising children with serious emotional disturbances by improving health outcomes for both youth and caregivers. Family peer supporters offer emotional support, active listening, healthcare navigation assistance, and resource connections.

Awardees must conduct pre- and post-surveys with participating families to assess program impact.

In May 2023, Governor Gianforte signed House Bill 872 into law as part of his Budget for Montana Families initiative. This move included significant investments to enhance intensive community-based behavioral health services across the state.

Further details about the commission's initiatives can be found on its webpage.