FOCUSS, a youth-focused nonprofit, is expanding its services to Jasper County to provide immediate help for young people in crisis. The organization has been working with youth in Polk County since 2015 and says demand for mental health support in rural areas is growing.

Part of FOCUSS’s approach is to educate the community and reduce the stigma that can keep families from seeking help. Youth in crisis are connected with therapists and social workers, and care plans are built to ensure ongoing support even after immediate needs are met. Executive Director of FOCUSS Darnell Loetman tells KRLS News they offer quick, extensive services.

“What we offer is if a situation arises, we can get there immediately, 24/7, seven days a week, doesn’t shut down. We’ll be able to get to them immediately and give them immediate services. We can pull them and do a deescalation, have them immediately with a therapist.”

The program can hold youth for up to 23 hours, and partnerships with organizations like Easterseals can extend that care if needed. Devon Robertson, Executive Director of Therapy House, adds that support continues for youth after they turn 17, providing a ‘warm handoff’ so ongoing mental health care isn’t interrupted.

Loetman and Robertson are seeking a facility in Newton to expand their services and better support Jasper County youth, emphasizing that their nonprofit services are available to anyone who needs them, regardless of insurance status.

Find the full interview with Darnell Loetman and Devon Robertson here.