The Veterans Mental Health Steering Committee announced a grant program that will give Alabama veterans 24/7, year-round access to mental health support.
Uwill, a national mental health and wellness platform, will administer the program, providing immediate, confidential mental health and wellness support to Alabama’s veterans.
The company developed the first individual and therapist matching platform, offering immediate appointments with licensed counselors, teletherapy, crisis connection, on-demand medical care, prescription management, wellness programming, realtime data and support.
The program is funded by Act 2024-426, signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey. The law set aside $3 million for pilot programs to support veterans’ behavioral health needs. Funding was awarded through a competitive application process and is intended to help fill gaps in services and expand access to care for veterans across Alabama.
With one of the nation’s highest per-capita veteran populations, Alabama faces a significant need for mental health services. According to the National Library of Medicine, 41% of veterans seek or need mental health support, but access is limited, especially in rural areas.
In an effort to combat that statistic, the VMHSC program aims to reach more than 40,000 veterans across the state, ages 18 to 34.
Through the program, Alabama veterans will have access to private, confidential mental health support any time of day or night, 365 days a year, including weekends and holidays. An initiative that reflects Alabama’s deep respect for its military community.
“Veterans represent the very best of our nation, strength, perseverance, leadership, and a lifelong dedication to service,” said Michael London, founder and CEO of Uwill. “The transition to civilian life can bring real challenges. We’re committed to ensuring veterans have the care and support they need to thrive in their next chapter. We are honored to support veterans in Alabama, and look forward to opportunities to support veterans nationwide.”
Evy Gallagher is the assistant editor of Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
