Home / Business and Economy / Howard County Crisis Center Faces Layoffs After Funding Cut
Howard County Crisis Center Faces Layoffs After Funding Cut
11 Aug
Summary
- Over 60 employees to be laid off due to loss of federal funding.
- Federal contract for 988 National Backup Text and Chat ends Sept. 29, 2026.
- Core services remain unaffected despite significant staff reduction.
More than 60 employees at Howard County's Grassroots Crisis Intervention center face layoffs due to the impending end of a federal funding contract. The 988 National Backup Text and Chat contract concludes on September 29, 2026, leading to the elimination of 62 positions.
Despite these significant staff cuts, Grassroots stated that its other free, 24-hour crisis, mental health, substance use, and homeless services will not be impacted. These essential services are provided by a team of 130 professionals committed to supporting vulnerable individuals and families in the community.
Howard County Executive Calvin Ball expressed concern, highlighting Grassroots' critical role in the local behavioral health safety net. He noted that federal funding decisions have direct consequences, affecting both dedicated staff and those who rely on crisis services during their most vulnerable moments.
