United Way to help fund mental health services

Ozaukee Family Services has received a $20,000 grant from United Way of Northern Ozaukee to create a school-based mental health program aimed at children in first through 12th grade.

The grant will improve access to mental health services for at-risk students whose families don’t have the money or resources for consistent, coordinated and affordable counseling, officials said.

The grant will allow Ozaukee Family Services to bring licensed mental health professionals to schools during the day to serve children. Counselors will address concerns about self-harm, self-esteem, bullying, depression, anxiety and other mental health issues.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, one in five children will experience a mental health issues in their school years.

“This collaborative and team approach will remove barriers and maximize students’ academic success,” United Way Executive Director Barbara Bates-Nelson said.

 United Way of Northern Ozaukee raised the grant funds through its annual Ozaukee Autumn Open: Scramblin’ for Funds golf outing in September.