Mahoning Co. health officials scramble to save core programs

YOUNGSTOWN — Mahoning County Mental Health officials are scrambling to find ways to maintain core programs after anticipated state subsidy cuts are enacted in January.

“We are looking at ways to absorb the state cuts without damaging our core programs, which served 10,000 county residents last year,” said Toni Notaro, agency administrative director.

Core programs, which operate independently but receive funding from the county mental health board, include: Burdman Group, Catholic Charities Regional Agency, D&E Counseling Center, Family Service Agency, Help Hotline Crisis Center, Meridian Services, Mahoning County Community Support Network and Turning Point Counseling Services.

At the same time as the second cut in its state subsidy is expected this fiscal year, the failing economy is creating even more need for services provided by mental health agencies, officials said.

For the complete story, see Friday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com