he Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) announced today that it has been awarded a $4 million grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) through its Linking Actions for Unmet Needs in Children’s Health (LAUNCH) program.
This funding, amounting to $800,000 per year over the next five years, will enable LECOM and its regional partners to establish Erie County Project LAUNCH, with the goal of promoting the social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and behavioral development of children from birth to 8 years of age across Erie County, PA. The program will focus on early identification and intervention for developmental concerns, equipping of caregivers and professionals with essential training, and providing seamless access to resources and referrals through a dedicated central resource center for the community.
“We are honored to receive this substantial grant from SAMHSA,” Dr. Danielle Hansen, regional president of LECOM Health, said. “This funding and the Erie County Project LAUNCH represent a monumental shift in how we approach early intervention and childhood mental health in our community and allow us to build on the existing system of care to not only address the immediate needs of young children and their families but also builds a foundation for long-term health and success.”
Erie County Project LAUNCH will focus on creating a supportive environment that enhances early childhood mental health practices, improves public awareness of available services, and ensures that children receive the necessary care to thrive in school and life. The project will involve a robust collaboration between dozens of healthcare providers, educators, government, and community organizations, all working together to build a resilient and healthy community for Erie’s youngest residents.
Erie County Project LAUNCH lead partner the Achievement Center of LECOM Health believes this initiative will be transformative in strengthening families and improving early child development and health outcomes.
“We are excited to play a lead role in Erie County Project LAUNCH,” Cassie Dundon, executive director of the Achievement Center of LECOM Health said. “Through awareness, access, and action, we are committed to equipping families, caregivers, and professionals with the tools they need to support every child. This community health initiative ensures that every child is seen, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive. Together, we will LAUNCH every child well, building a future where all children can succeed.”
By September 2029, Erie County Project LAUNCH plans to train and resource more than 6,000 Erie County residents in prevention and mental health promotion, increase parental involvement, decrease expulsion/suspensions, and increase the number of individuals receiving evidence-based behavioral health services by 10% each year.
