Skip to main content

Moulton Announces Federal Grant for Lynn Community Health Center to Expand Behavioral Health Services

October 1, 2024

LYNN, MA – Congressman Seth Moulton is pleased to announce that the Lynn Community Health Center (LCHC) has received a $600,000 federal grant to allow it to treat more patients with mental health and substance use conditions.

LCHC is one of 400 community health centers across the country receiving $240 million in federal Behavioral Health Service Expansion Awards. The funding will help directly tackle the nation’s mental health and opioid crises.

With this grant, LCHC will expand its ability to treat mental health and substance use conditions, including the provision of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). This expansion will allow the health center to serve more patients struggling with opioid addiction, ensuring they receive the individualized care and support needed to recover.

The funding will also bolster LCHC’s Behavioral Health Training Program, providing essential resources for training current staff and future professionals. This investment in workforce development will ensure the center’s healthcare teams are equipped with the latest tools and knowledge to deliver high-quality, culturally sensitive care to patients facing mental health challenges.

"We are incredibly grateful for this award, which comes at a critical time for our community in Greater Lynn. With this funding, we can expand our Behavioral Health services and reach more individuals struggling with mental health and substance use challenges. We are deeply committed to our mission, ensuring everyone receives the care they need, and this grant helps us take another big step toward that goal," said Brenda Rodriguez, MBA, Chief Executive Officer.

“LCHC is a pillar of this community. Without it, fewer patients in need would have access to the quality care they deserve. Especially at a time when more people are struggling with mental health challenges, I’m thrilled LCHC will receive this new federal funding so that it can treat more patients. Thank you to the wonderful staff who make a positive difference each day. I look forward to continuing our partnership in the future,” said Congressman Moulton.

Additionally, the grant will support necessary improvements to LCHC’s IT infrastructure, allowing the center to integrate new technologies and systems to improve efficiency and patient access. These upgrades will streamline operations, enhance coordination of care, and improve the overall experience for both patients and healthcare providers.

“This funding will allow us to strengthen our commitment to health equity by growing our diverse, multilingual workforce and enhance access to mental health, substance use and telehealth services. Our focus is on ensuring that every member of our community, regardless of language or background, can receive the high-quality care they deserve,” said Carlos Cappas, PsyD, MBA, Chief Behavioral Health Officer.

This federal grant is a significant step forward in LCHC’s mission to provide comprehensive care for the Lynn community, ensuring expanded access to essential mental health and addiction services.