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Former Morgan Center could house mentally ill

Kitsap Sun (Bremerton, WA) - 10/24/2014

Oct. 24--BREMERTON -- Plans are in motion for a new complex at the vacant Frances Haddon Morgan Center that would house those with mental illness who are on the verge of crisis.

The Cottages at Forest Park is a collaboration between the city, Bremerton Housing Authority and Kitsap Mental Health Services to develop housing integrated with on-site support from counselors.

In addition to providing a better standard of living for those who suffer from mental illness, similar projects around the country are proving themselves to be cheaper than relying on crisis care, such as visits to emergency rooms.

"It is being recognized as the most cost-effective solution in addressing some of our greatest social challenges," said Joe Roszak, executive director of Kitsap Mental Health Services. "It becomes a long-term win for the community and for the quality of life of the client."

The $2.1 million project would revamp three cottages at the Morgan Center, which once housed adults with autism but was shut down by the state in 2011. The state still owns the property, which also is used by the Bremerton School District, said Nancy Austin, Bremerton Housing Authority's director of real estate and contracts. And the plan is still in its preliminary stages, with a feasibility study currently ongoing, she said.

The project would be made possible by $500,000 in state funding administrated to Kitsap Mental Health Services, another $500,000 from the Bremerton Housing Authority from revenues it gained when it sold some parcels of what is now Bay Vista, and $600,000 the city will likely receive from a federal grant next year.

Mayor Patty Lent supports the project, saying the currently vacant space near the city's Forest Ridge Park will help a population in need. The site is near Sixth Street and Marion Avenue.

"It is being repurposed in the best possible way," she said.

The City Council still has to approve the $600,000 in federal funding, known as a Community Development Block Grant, at its Nov. 5 meeting. But should the plans materialize, Roszak envisions a better life for about 30 people who currently live in "squalid" conditions. KMHS staff will be available from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., he said. Rooms will be about 400 square feet and include kitchen and bathroom facilities.

"It's going to be small, but it's going to be a safe and secure housing," he said.

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