Accessing Healing Funding in Rural Kansas Communities
GrantID: 7914
Grant Funding Amount Low: $20,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $20,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Barriers to Mental Health Access in Kansas
Kansas faces significant barriers to mental health access, particularly in rural areas. With over 90% of the state's land classified as rural, many residents find themselves situated further than 30 miles from their nearest mental health provider. According to the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, the state has an alarming shortage of mental health professionals, with only 18 psychiatrists per 100,000 residents, compared to the national average of 32. This discrepancy highlights an urgent need for innovative solutions to bolster mental health services, especially in areas where healthcare infrastructure is lacking.
Who Faces Mental Health Gaps in Kansas?
The most affected individuals in Kansas include those in remote rural counties, where healthcare services are not only scarce but often difficult to access due to transportation issues and the stigma surrounding mental health. Farmers, the elderly, and low-income families are particularly vulnerable, facing barriers that exacerbate their mental health needs. The implications of untreated mental health issues are profound, leading to increased rates of suicide and other detrimental outcomes. In many instances, residents must rely on sporadic visits from traveling mental health providers or telehealth services, which may not fully meet their needs.
How Funding Addresses Mental Health Barriers
This grant proposal aims to develop holistic healing programs rooted in Christian Science principles to provide much-needed mental health resources in Kansas. By training local facilitators, the initiative intends to create workshop series that educate communities about mental and spiritual well-being while utilizing principles from Christian Science. With a focus on preventative care, these programs will empower participants to engage in self-help practices that can alleviate mental distress and promote community resilience.
Commitment to Community Healing
The funding will also facilitate the establishment of ongoing support systems for program participants, including peer-led groups that foster continuous engagement. These support systems will not only reinforce the teachings of Christian Science but also create a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and seek help. This initiative represents a proactive approach to mental health care that aligns with Kansas's cultural fabric while targeting the specific gaps that rural residents face. To apply, interested parties must demonstrate readiness for scholarly engagement with these principles through a structured application process focused on their intent and community impact.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
