In my post yesterday, I mentioned the AB 34 programs, and many of you visiting the blog are already familiar with those programs.
For those of you who have provided or received services under those programs, or are connected with them in some other way, I wanted to give you the link so you can take a look at the State Department of Mental Health's publication regarding the successful outcomes of individuals as a result of these programs, and the savings to the state as a result of the programs. Click here.
For those of you who are just joining us in this effort, the AB 34 programs are programs in 34 counties that provide services to people who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness, and severely mentally ill. These programs are based on the first bill I authored when I was elected to the Assembly in 1998.
The AB 34 programs, thanks to the efforts of many people, including counties, mental health providers, and others, have been a proven success. The "whatever it takes" approach of services offered under these programs, such as mental health services and vocational rehabilitation services, have saved the state millions of dollars that would have otherwise been spent on hospitalizing and incarcerating people who are in the program.
Many of the people with severe mental illness who have benefited from the program's services are now living productive lives, and are doing so with dignity. Mildred Littlejohn is one of those people.
The AB 34 programs have received recognition for their success and effectiveness from the State Department of Mental Health, and were also recently recognized by the President's New Freedom Commission on Mental Health because of their success and effectiveness.
If we can help people who have hit bottom in our society because of mental illness, I know we can help those who are at risk, and that's why I'm here. But I need your help to make it work.
You can read more about the success of these AB 34 programs, and savings to the state as a result of these programs, on the California Department of Mental Health website. Click here.
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