The DeWitt County 708 Board has wrapped up its latest community needs assessment and is looking ahead to how it can address the concerns brought out through that assessment. 

On the WHOW Morning Show on Thursday, Sharon Mills with the DeWitt County 708 Board told the Hart Media Group that the organization has been reviewing the findings from its community assessment, conducted in partnership with Heritage Behavioral Health, to better understand the specific needs of the people they serve. 

Mills explains that the survey results have led them to focus on the challenges of accessing care and the stigmas that surround the resources they provide, like a perceived cost barrier. 

Mary Garrison with Heritage feels that spreading the word is the best way to break the stigmas around care. She wants people to know that no matter your financial status, anyone who walks through the door will be welcomed and seen. 

Mills adds that although the population of the County has decreased slightly, through this assessment, they have found that the number of people in need has increased, especially in rural areas. That, combined with the rarity of mental health resources in rural places, emphasizes the need for what they provide. 

We'll have more in the days ahead at the Hart Media Group from Mills and Garrison on their findings from the community assessment.

In the meantime, learn more about the DeWitt County 708 Board by finding them on Facebook or going to dewittcountymhb.com. Follow along with Heritage Behavioral Health Center at heritagenet.org.