Chris Murphy Visits Prime Time House to Announce Federal Funding

Press Release

Today, Congressman Chris Murphy visited the Prime Time House in Torrington to announce two federal grants, totaling $324,743, for the organization.

"Unfortunately, the need for quality mental health care is on the rise, yet the resources with which organizations like Prime Time House help are dwindling. I know this funding will be put to good use by Prime Time House in the greater Torrington area," said Murphy.

Through the federal appropriations process, Murphy was able to set aside $118,943 for Prime Time House to expand programs which assist adults with serious mental illness find pathways back to independence and recovery by developing employment opportunities and increasing support provided to people returning to school and colleges.

A second grant of $205,800 will allow Prime Time House to continue their Capital Expansion Project.

Despite repeated threats from President Bush to veto spending bills passed by Congress, Murphy was able to secure this funding and it was included in the omnibus appropriations bill signed into law by the President on December 26.

Murphy was joined by Prime Time House board members and their Chief Executive Officer, Warren Sparrow.

"These funds represent a 25% increase to our operating capital for Prime Time House over the next twelve months. This is a significant contribution that will benefit a community that encompasses 19 towns in over 600 square miles in the Northwest Corner. Members who receive services, dedicated staff, and the Board of Directors are grateful for Congressman Murphy's recognition that mental health is an integral part of a community's overall health; and, that he and his staff chose so support a historically and chronically under-funded segment of the health care system," said Sparrow.

Sparrow added, "With these funds we will improve our facility, increase our hours of operations by 22%, provide an increase of 66 more hours of staff support per week, and encourage many other people to engage in their recovery by returning to gainful employment, vocational training, and higher education, which will facilitate fuller, more productive lives for people with severe and persistent mental illnesses."

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