This grant funds specialized hospital-based emergency departments and observational units dedicated to serving individuals experiencing mental health crises in South Carolina. The goal is to expand the state's capacity for rapid stabilization and connection to community resources by supporting infrastructure and building expenses for eligible hospitals. Only licensed South Carolina hospitals with acute care emergency departments meeting specific criteria may apply.
Eligibility
Any licensed South Carolina hospital that currently operates an acute care emergency department, including treatment of mental health emergency clients, and is licensed and certified as a health care facility by DHEC.
HospitalAcute Care Hospital
Requirements Checklist
Application must specify the number of beds and chairs requested based on emergency room data.
Must submit at least three letters of support (from Hospital CEO, internal advisory board, and a professional/community partner).
Include a conceptual site plan showing layout and compliance with EmPATH philosophy.
Application packets must be submitted by email.
Must adhere to minimum space requirements (80 sq. ft. per client, including 40 sq. ft. around each chair).
Funds must be used for infrastructure and building-related expenses only.