The Sharp County Family Centered Treatment Court has been awarded a $775,977 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice's Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, according to officials. The funding comes through the federal agency's fiscal year 2025 Family Treatment Court Program and is intended to expand critical services for families in the county.
The specialty court, which collaborates closely with Hope Behavioral Health, provides substance use treatment and support for families involved in the judicial system. The grant will allow the court to strengthen mental health care, enhance relapse prevention resources, and offer additional services to help participating families achieve long-term stability.
"Helping families succeed requires access to treatment and practical support," Circuit Judge Weeks said. "Our partnership with Hope Behavioral Health connects families with the care they need. This grant will expand our ability to address mental health needs, support relapse prevention, and provide services that help families make lasting progress."
Officials said the expanded programming will focus on addressing relapse risks, building recovery skills, and overcoming barriers that families face in achieving stable, safe home environments. The treatment court’s holistic approach combines judicial oversight, coordinated care, and family support.
"Our goal is to help parents achieve and sustain recovery, protect children, and strengthen families," Weeks added. “This award is a significant investment in that work and in the Sharp County community."
The federal funding aims to create lasting, positive changes for parents and children involved in the program, enabling parents to maintain long-term recovery and provide stable homes for their children.