In a substantial boost for mental health support in Salt Lake County, the Featherstone Boarding Home officially opened its doors, heralding a new chapter for individuals grappling with severe mental illness. A collaboration of local officials from Salt Lake County, the Utah Department of Health & Human Services, and various community stakeholders has led to the establishment of this 30-unit facility. It presents on-site support and plays a crucial role in executing the region's ambitious Five-Year Human Services, Homelessness, and Criminal Justice Action Plan.
"Featherstone is a groundbreaking step forward in our mission to provide compassionate, effective care for individuals with severe mental illness," Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson stated, as obtained by Salt Lake County. The boarding home doesn't just offer a place to stay, it provides a foundation for stability, dignity, and health-centered support. Santiago Cortez, CEO of Clinical Consultants, shared this sentiment: "We are honored to be a part of a project that will provide a caring, safe, and supportive environment where individuals can thrive," he said, as per Salt Lake County.
Featherstone residents will have access to services through Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) teams, a proven, nationally recognized mental health program. Salt Lake County now boasts five ACT teams serving over 400 individuals, further expanding the reach of personalized care that diminishes the need for hospitalization, jail time, and homelessness.
Financial support from the State of Utah amounted to half of the necessary funding for Featherstone, cementing the state's commitment to the Healing Opportunities to Mentally Excel, Court Pilot Program. This initiative seeks to establish less restrictive, community-centered alternatives for individuals with mental illness who aren't eligible for civil commitment or other criminal diversion courts. Featherstone will also potentially house participants of this pilot program, according to Salt Lake County.
