Callis
A two-year enhancement grant was awarded to the Madison County Veterans Treatment Court for $199,105 through the Department of Justice, Office of Justice programs.
The grant will allow the Veterans' Treatment Court (VTC) to expand and meet needs of veterans by adding outreach and case work, providing case management to reduce barriers and facilitate entry into the VTC and by ensuring that veterans maximize resources to achieve recovery and reintegrate into local communities, according to a release from Madison County Chief Judge Ann Callis's office.
The grant has allowed for the hiring of veterans assistance commission service officer, Nicolette Watson. Funds also will be used for drug testing and short-term rental assistance, the release states.
The Veterans Treatment Court serves about 60 veterans per year.
"It is an honor to receive this funding," said Brad Lavite, superintendent of Madison County Veterans' Assistance Commission. "Our office and commission is excited to continue to work alongside Chief Judge Callis, as she has been instrumental in working with our office and our Veteran population."
Callis said she hoped the grant would "ensure the successful future of our Veterans' Treatment Court by significantly increasing the level of service provided to Madison County Veterans."
For information about the program, call Madison County Veterans' Assistance Commission Service Officer Nicolette Watson at (618) 296-4757.