DHS awards $307,668 grant to fund new peer-run respite for veterans with mental health challenges

March 28, 2019 5:46 PM

Jamie Perez,

Posted: March 28, 2019 5:46 PM

Updated: August 31, 2021 12:22 PM

by Jamie Perez

DHS awards $307,668 grant to fund new peer-run respite for veterans with mental health challenges — Wisconsin Department of Health Services

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has awarded Mental Health America Wisconsin a $307,668 startup grant through June to develop a peer-run respite home for veterans who experience stress from mental health or substance abuse struggles.

Peer-run respites provide help 24/7 from people who have also dealt with similar issues and who have proven to be successful in their recovery.

In a press release on the DHS website, Secretary-designate Andrea Palm said, “This peer-to-peer connection often is the spark that is needed to ignite hope and healing.”

While there are peer-run respite homes already available in Wisconsin, few cater specifically to the needs of veterans, especially those who have been in combat.

The new peer-run respite will be located in Milwaukee, but will be available for all veterans in Wisconsin. Mental Health America of Wisconsin is still looking for an exact location for the peer-run respite.

Get your weather forecast from people who actually live in your community. We update with short, easy-to-use video forecasts you can watch on your phone every day. Download the iOS or Android app here.