Attorney General Bob McDonnell this morning announced a challenge grant of $1 million to the Virginia Health Care Foundation to provide mental-health services.
The grant money comes from two 2008 settlements with pharmacy benefits management companies, and the foundation will raise a $1 million match.
The foundation will distribute the full amount to Virginia's health safety net providers through a competitive grant process, according to the Attorney General's office.
The foundation anticipates having 8-10 three-year grants to offer primary health care to the seriously mentally ill or to expand basic mental-health services, such as helping uninsured patients who suffer from depression and anxiety.
The timing is perfect amid uncertain economic times, said Debbie Oswalt, executive director of the foundation. Depression and anxiety can be frequent companions to losing a home or job, she said.





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