In an effort to improve mental health services for individuals involved in the criminal justice system and New York youth, Gov. Kathy Hochul has allocated more than $33 million towards various programs as part of her 2025 budget announcement. The investment includes funding for the Midtown Community Justice Center, which helps individuals struggling with mental illness manage their court cases, and $19 million to provide critical care to youth outside of school environments.
Ibrahim Ayu, who faced federal charges in 2023 following an incident with an NYPD officer, credited the Midtown Community Justice Center with changing the trajectory of his life. Dr. Dayana Jimenez, owner of Manhattan Teen & Young Adult Psychology, highlighted the importance of early intervention in youth mental health and expressed optimism that the state’s investments will have a positive impact on young individuals’ development of healthy coping skills.
Hochul emphasized that providing support and stability to those in need is crucial rather than resorting to incarceration. By enhancing mental health supports, she believes individuals can find stability and peace while also making communities safer. CBS New York spoke to mental health experts and individuals who have benefited from programs that will receive funding to understand the impact of this investment on their lives.