Pawnee Mental Health proudly has received a $20,000 grant from the Dean Coughenour Trust to support its Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU). This funding enhances Pawnee’s capacity to deliver immediate, life-saving behavioral health interventions for individuals in crisis across its 10-county service area.
Located in Manhattan the CSU operates 24/7, 365 days a year, serving adults experiencing acute mental health or substance use crises. The CSU provides short-term stabilization, clinical assessment, therapeutic support and case management, helping individuals avoid hospitalization, incarceration or ER visits. In FY24 alone, 508 people were admitted to the CSU, accounting for more than 2,380 bed days.
The $20,000 award will help cover direct operational costs, including staffing, supplies and transitional housing support. These resources ensure that community members in crisis receive timely, trauma-informed care when they need it most.
“Our CSU provides hope, dignity, and immediate support to people in their darkest moments,” said Amanda Yenzer, Director of Crisis Services at Pawnee Mental Health. “This generous funding from the Dean Coughenour Trust allows us to continue delivering the compassionate care that saves lives and strengthens our communities.”
By sustaining the CSU, Pawnee helps reduce the strain on hospitals, law enforcement, and emergency systems while ensuring individuals in crisis have access to the proper care at the right time.