Pontiac Times

Oxford Charter Township issued the following announcement on Mar 21.

Just a reminder . . . 

Funding is available to support the mental health needs of students, families and educators impacted by the Nov. 30, 2021 OHS tragedy.

The Oakland County Board of Commissioners partnered with the Oakland Community Health Network (OCHN) to launch the Oxford Community Mental Health Services Copay and Deductible Program for those directly impacted by the shooting that occurred at Oxford High School on November 30, 2021. 

Oxford students and their families (households), as well as school administrators and staff, can apply for up to $2,000 in assistance for insurance co-pay, deductible or service payments associated with mental health care.  

“After the horrific incident on November 30, many community leaders immediately realized we had gaps in support due to high co-pays and deductibles for mental health,” said Commissioner Michael Spisz (R-Oxford), who authored the resolution. "We knew we had to establish a solution quickly, and working closely with OCHN we were able create such a program. No victim from this incident should have to go untreated or stop treatment due to healthcare costs.” 

The Oakland County Board of Commissioners dedicated $500,000 to support the mental health needs of students, families and educators who were directly impacted by the tragedy. OCHN will manage and facilitate the distribution of the funds.   

Individuals can apply for insurance co-pay, deductible or mental health service payment assistance online at bit.ly/OCHNOxfrdGrntApp or by calling 248-464-6363. Proof of payment for insurance co-pays, deductibles or services provided by a qualified mental health professional is required. 

Eligible service examples include psychiatry, psychological testing, psychological assessment, family therapy, or individual counseling or psychotherapy. 

Documentation and information needed to complete the application includes student name, grade, and age (if applicable); individual, parent, or guardian name; mailing address; and a signed service consent form. 

“We, as a community, need to rally behind each other and continue to help where we can,” Spisz said. “I must thank the entire Board of Commissioners and the Executive Office for their support and working with me to fill very important need in our community.” 

Programs and supports provided by OCHN's service network are available at www.oaklandchn.org.

Original source can be found here.