The Thomas Bloom Raskin Act was the first bill Governor Hogan signed into law on April 13, 2021, the day after Sine Die. “At 211 Maryland, we are really excited to be a partner in this effort to provide proactive mental health services for those who are in need and we are looking forward to beginning the 211 Health Check Program in July.” “I want to thank Congressman Raskin for sharing his story and shining a light on mental health,” said 2-1-1 Maryland President and CEO Quinton Askew. When the program launches, those who have signed up for text alerts will be invited to schedule their first call. 211 Maryland will send supportive text messages leading up to launch of 211 Health Check later this summer. Marylanders can text HealthCheck to 211-MD1 to sign up for text alerts about the program or to register for the program early. We live in a state that cares about each and every person out there, and we don’t want to lose anybody else.”
The 211 Mental Health Check Program responds to this crisis. The rates of suicide and suicide attempts have increased dramatically. The mental and emotional health problems among very young kids, preteens and teens in particular, skyrocketed during the pandemic. “COVID-19 took a huge toll on our people. “I’m moved to think we have a state that has worked together across party lines to focus on mental and emotional health,” said Rep.
The proactive mental health phone support program provides a one-on-one connection with a warm, caring specialist trained in suicide prevention and mental health support. The Thomas Bloom Raskin Act (Senate Bill 719/House Bill 812), which takes effect July 1 st, directed the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) to establish the 211 Health Check Program.