By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Gov. Kay Ivey joined local leaders, federal and state officials and community members in Brantley on Nov.12 to break ground on Alabama’s first rural South Central Alabama Mental Health (SCAMH) Crisis Diversion Center. The facility represents a significant milestone in improving access to mental health care for underserved areas in the state.

Ivey emphasized the power of collaboration in bringing the project to life. 

“This center is an example of what we can achieve when state, federal and local resources come together,” Ivey said. “Today marks a vital step in addressing mental health needs across Alabama, particularly in rural communities like Brantley.”

The Emerald Wave Band opened the ceremony, performing the “National Anthem,” followed by an invocation from Pastor George Stringer of the Pentecostal Church of Christ P.A.W. Inc. Brantley Mayor Bernie Sullivan welcomed attendees, expressing his gratitude for the collaboration that made the project possible.

“Your unwavering support, dedication and contributions have brought us to this exciting milestone for our town and county,” Sullivan said. “Thank you, Gov. Ivey, for taking time out of your busy schedule to be here. Mental health is high on your agenda, and I hope this facility and the town of Brantley will make you proud.”

Sullivan noted that this was the first time a sitting Alabama governor had visited Brantley. He recognized Alabama’s Mental Health Commissioner Ken Boswell, represented at the event by Alabama Department of Mental Health Chief of Staff Collier Tynes Dixon, Federal Co-Chair of the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission (SCRC) Dr. Jennifer Reed and others.

Probate Judge Will Tate emphasized the importance of addressing mental health challenges in rural areas.

“Mental health continues to be an issue in this state,” Tate said. “Rural Alabama is no exception. The impact of mental health is felt everywhere. I would even go as far as saying that there is not one person here today who has not been impacted by my bad mental health and this facility will be a beacon of hope for individuals facing mental health challenges.”

Dr. Charles Thompkins, a Brantley native and local physician, shared his personal perspective on the barriers to mental health care in rural areas. 

“I am both honored and humbled to partner with SCAMH on such a worthy project,” Thompkins said.

“This facility is a dream come true. This facility will offer resources that have long been needed in this region and I’m convinced that not only will lives be impacted, but lives will be saved by this action.”

The $10.7 million, 21,000-square-foot center, funded by a US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Community Facilities Loan and operational funds from the Alabama Department of Mental Health, will operate 24/7 under a “no wrong door” policy. This approach ensures that anyone in crisis will have immediate access to care, regardless of the time or day.

William T. Wright, Director of South Central Alabama Mental Health (SCAMH), explained the center’s mission. 

“This facility will serve as a diversion from jails and emergency rooms, providing care where it’s most needed,” Wright said.

Reed emphasized the urgent needs the center, once complete, will meet.. 

“This crisis center will meet a visible and urgent need,” Reed said. “It’s inspiring to see this level of collaboration for such an essential cause.”

When completed in early 2026, the Brantley facility will be Alabama’s seventh crisis center and the first in a rural setting. It will employ approximately 65 individuals with an annual payroll exceeding $4.5 million.

“This center is more than just a building,” Sullivan said. “It represents hope, care, and a brighter future for Brantley and the surrounding areas.”

Construction is set to begin before the end of 2024, with the facility poised to become a model for similar rural initiatives statewide.