NORWICH – Catholic Charities of Chenango County is likely to receive nearly $29,000 in state aid to increase the number of beds available for people with a mental illness.

Pending approval from the Chenango County Board of Supervisors, Catholic Charities will add five more beds to its long-standing contract with the county’s Community Mental Hygiene Services Program. The contract provides housing support to qualified individuals for essential costs, including rent and security deposits, furniture, household basics, and minor alterations and repairs to meet individuals’ needs.

People who qualify for supported housing, as well as the services that are provided, are selected by MHS based on their psychiatric needs.

The county already contracts with Catholic Charities for housing services for 14 individuals with a mental illness, but the five additional beds made possible through increased state funding are much needed, especially as the Binghamton Psychiatric Center in Broome County starts to scale back its inpatient beds, said MHS Director Ruth Roberts.