Juniata County Proclaims May as Mental Health Awareness Month, Highlights Community Events

BY BRIAN CARSON

MIFFLINTOWN — The Juniata County Commissioners on Tuesday proclaimed May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Month, a move aimed at increasing understanding, reducing stigma, and encouraging community participation.

The proclamation underscores the county’s effort to bring attention to mental health challenges through local events and outreach.

County officials said the designation comes as communities address mental health needs across all age groups, particularly among younger residents who are more open about discussing those issues.

Administrator Kathy Whalen told commissioners the goal is to promote awareness and acceptance while encouraging residents to support one another.

The county will mark the month with several public events, including a new fundraiser and a community picnic.

The designation is expected to increase participation in community events and raise visibility for mental health resources. Residents will see more outreach efforts, including public gatherings and awareness campaigns.

Among the events is “Shatter the Silence,” a cornhole tournament scheduled for May 16 at Mifflin County Youth Park in Reedsville. The fundraiser will include registration fees and prizes.

Organizers also plan to light local courthouses green during the month as a symbol of support.

A second event, the CSP Recovery Day Picnic, is set for May 12 at Walker Township Park. The annual gathering typically draws dozens of participants connected to local recovery and support programs.

Commissioners approved the proclamation without opposition.

In other business, the board adopted a policy for handling cash payments in response to a coin shortage, particularly pennies.

Tax Claim Director Hillary Kindervater said the county has adjusted how it processes cash transactions due to limited coin availability.

Under the new policy, the county may round transactions when exact change is not available or encourage residents to pay exact amounts. Alternative payment methods, including online credit card and electronic check options, remain available.
Commissioners also ratified the fourth year of the county’s Indigent Defense Grant, which will run from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. The funding supports the Public Defender’s Office, covering costs such as part-time staff, software, and contracted legal services.

Human Services officials said the grant is part of an effort to improve legal representation for residents who cannot afford private attorneys. The program has grown over multiple years and now aligns with the state’s fiscal calendar.

Additional action included approving a “space available” agreement between Juniata County Children and Youth Services and Central Counties Youth Center for the upcoming year. The agreement ensures access to placement services when needed.

The board also approved payment of county checks, ratified a hazardous materials expense of $408.60, and reviewed departmental reports submitted by Children and Youth Services.

During a brief salary board session, officials approved a change in employment status for a county security employee, Adam Eubanks, moving the position from part-time to full-time without a change in wages.

Meeting notebook

• Commissioners adopted a cash-handling policy because of coin shortages.
• A $408.60 hazardous materials payment was ratified.
• Year four of the Indigent Defense Grant was approved.
• Children and Youth Services reports were reviewed.
• County checks were approved for payment.
• A security department employee, Adam Eubanks, was moved from part-time to full-time with no wage change.