WASHINGTON - U.S. Representative Edolphus “Ed” Towns (NY-10) today announced that the U.S. House of Representatives approved more than half a million dollars to improve access for individuals and families dealing with mental illnesses access to care and better treatment.  Towns secured $550,000 for the Ohel Children’s Home and Family Services in the Labor, Health and Education Appropriations Act of 2010, which passed the House last month.  The next step for the bill is approval before the United States Senate.

“It is our moral obligation to ensure that individuals and families who suffer from mental illnesses have the best treatment facilities and resources available,” said Rep. Towns.  “Ohel’s critical services make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.”

Ohel has served the Brooklyn Jewish community since 1969, and provides housing, crisis intervention, job training and many other services to its mental health patients.  Ohel will use the funds to expand its operations in the Brooklyn community and provide its patients with more robust care.

Ohel’s Adult Mental Health Program includes an outpatient mental health clinic benefiting more than 1,100 Brooklyn residents.  The clinic, which runs an important anti-stigma campaign that helps patients integrate into the community while also reducing their dependence on government services, is also set to benefit from the funding.   

“Ohel is extremely grateful to have Rep. Towns’ support,” said David Mandel, Chief Executive Officer of Ohel Children’s Home and Family Services.  “His commitment to those suffering from mental illnesses is a true sign of leadership.  Rep. Towns is helping Ohel make a difference in the lives of thousands of Brooklyn residents, and we cannot thank him enough.”

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