Washington, D.C. – Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva is proud to congratulate the Pima County Family Drug Court (FDC) and the Pima County Municipality Regional Veterans Court (MRVC) for each receiving a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).  The FDC grant is for $244,493 and will help fund operations until September 29, 2015. The MRVC grant is worth $250,000 and will also last until September 29, 2015.

The FDC was created 11 years ago to help families deal with the effects of substance abuse. This year the Court will serve 120 parents and 140 children as they cope with substance abuse and mental health issues. The new grant will expand services like the Celebrating Families! curriculum, gender-specific therapy, primary healthcare and peer support. 

“This means the Family Drug Court can continue the good work it’s been doing in the community for many years,” Grijalva said. “We all know substance abuse is a serious problem. Dedicated, cost-effective organizations like FDC help Southern Arizona families stay healthy and make sure we don’t turn a blind eye to issues we can solve as a community.”

The MRVC directs veterans charged with certain offenses to rehabilitation services and helps at-risk veterans avoid further legal trouble. The program involves veteran participation in a tailored treatment program aimed at getting them back on their feet. If a veteran successfully completes the Court’s treatment program and does not commit further offenses, charges will often be dismissed. The program is available to veterans charged with misdemeanors not including sexual or violent crimes.

“The Court is an important part of the overall approach we should be taking to help our veterans when they return home,” Grijalva said. “Veterans can, and should, stay productive members of society after they make mistakes. Rehabilitation services are one of the best investments we can make in the well-being of our military families and everyone around them, and I thank HHS for recognizing the validity and importance of what the Court is doing for Southern Arizona.”