Juvenile Detention Center Behavioral Health Services Funding

The Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), through its Juvenile and Adult Community-Based Services Division, is offering a funding opportunity for Juvenile Detention Centers (JDCs) operating within the state of Kansas to develop or enhance behavioral health services. This initiative stems from provisions within HB2021, passed by the Kansas Legislature in 2023, which mandates standardized assessments, timely case planning, and access to behavioral health services for detained juveniles. This grant supports JDCs in meeting these mandates by funding services such as mental health assessments and treatment (both individual and group), substance use disorder assessments and treatment, and care coordination including discharge planning. Applicants may staff these services either by contracting with a Community Mental Health Center (CMHC) or by employing personnel directly through the JDC. Eligible applicants are restricted to county governments that operate JDCs in Kansas. The grant award period spans from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. Award notifications are expected before July 1, 2026, and funds will be disbursed by July 30, 2026. While this opportunity is tied to the FY2027 cycle, KDOC has indicated potential for renewal or a future funding cycle to continue this initiative. Applications must be submitted between April 1, 2026, and May 31, 2026, using the prescribed Forms I and II. The submission deadline is 5:00 p.m. on May 31, 2026. Award decisions will be guided by statutory criteria under KSA 75-7053 and funding will be disbursed to the Board of County Commissioners or the administrative county for multi-county applications. All applicants must include completed signatory forms and a budget workbook in Excel format. Successful applicants must comply with reporting and oversight obligations including monthly JDC service logs and quarterly financial reports, each with specific submission deadlines. Grantees are required to follow state and federal confidentiality laws, ensure non-discrimination in service provision, and adhere to KDOC’s financial and operational rules. Additionally, they must not co-mingle these funds with other state, federal, or local sources. Questions and completed applications should be directed to Clay McCarter, Director of Special Projects/Early Intervention at clay.mccarter@ks.gov or 785-554-8024. This grant reflects Kansas’ strategic effort to ensure the delivery of timely and effective behavioral health services to detained youth, aligned with evidence-based practices and statutory requirements.

Ensure clear budget justifications and adherence to KDOC’s financial rules; include all attachments and signatures; noncompliance may lead to disqualification