The Mercer County Health Department continues to grow its reach through the Mental Health Action Program (MHAP), offering vital mental health support to students and underserved communities across the region.
Melissa Hajostek, who oversees the program’s school-based efforts, says the case management approach has helped break down major barriers for families in both Mercer County and Sherrard school districts.
“In our most recent year, we served 142 students,” Hajostek said. “Seventy-eight percent made a positive lifestyle change, and 45 were connected with a new mental health provider. Every student received mental health education—whether it was coping skills, goal setting, or relaxation techniques—and nearly half also got support for their families.”
Hannah Garrett shared how the program is finding ways to reach residents in rural parts of the county.
“We partner with Kurt Doyle, a licensed clinical social worker at MercyOne Genesis, to bring mobile mental health clinics to places like the Quaint Center in Keithsburg,” Garrett said. “We’ve also teamed up with Warren County Public Transportation to provide reliable travel assistance to appointments.”
The MHAP program has expanded rapidly since its launch, now serving hundreds of individuals and making hundreds of referrals to partner organizations. Both Garrett and Hajostek say they’re focused on breaking down stigma, increasing access, and treating the whole person—not just a diagnosis.