Mental health services for youth up to age 18 will soon be expanded in Grundy County with the launch of a new nonprofit organization launched by the Grundy County Community Foundation. The center is intended to address a significant shortage of behavioral health service providers in the county.
The number of young behavioral health patients is increasing, increasing from 15 in 2020 to 188 in 2023, according to Grundy County Health Department statistics. According to Early Intervention Screening, 157 children from the age of three were screened this year, and only 60% had insurance.
Julie Buck, executive director of the Community Foundation of Grundy County, spoke to WCSJ about the foundation’s recent purchase of property in Mazon, which focuses on supporting the mental health of youth in the Grundy area.
Grundy Eunoia Wellness Center will serve children from birth to age 18 and will accept a variety of insurance plans, Medicaid, and sliding-scale private pay. The center, located in the former Mazon State Bank building, will offer ample space for counseling, as well as indoor recreation and an outdoor play area.
Buck spoke about the purchase and renovations scheduled for May and June.
The foundation is accepting donations of cash and office furniture. Donations can be made online or dropped off at the foundation’s office in Morris. For more information, contact the Grundy County Community Foundation.
