BJA FY24 Connect and Protect: Law Enforcement Behavioral Health Response Program

The U.S. Department of Justice's Office of Justice Programs' Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) has announced that it is now accepting applications for the BJA FY24 Connect and Protect: Law Enforcement Behavioral Health Response Program. The goal of this grant program is to strengthen the bonds between law enforcement and the communities they serve by improving public health and safety outcomes for individuals with mental health disorders or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.

This grant program supports initiatives that facilitate collaboration between law enforcement and behavioral health systems. Funded strategies may involve improved responses to individuals with these disorders or developing comprehensive plans to better target those in need. The end objective is to enhance civil rights and equity, strengthen community safety, and increase access to justice.

Additionally, the Office of Justice Programs is also keen on providing aid to crime victims and affected individuals by the justice system, safeguarding the public from crime and emerging threats, and fostering transparency and trust between law enforcement and the community. The BJA provides the necessary funding and support to help prepare, create, or expand these comprehensive action plans and to implement collaborative projects targeting eligible individuals.