Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) will receive $1 million in state funding to renovate and reopen the L.E. Phillips Libertas Treatment Center in Chippewa Falls.

State Senator Jesse James (Left) and State Representative Clint Moses (Right) the two authors of the provision granting LSS $1 million. Courtesy: Facebook

The funding, a provision to the state budget authored by State Senator Jesse James (R-Thorp) and State Representative Clint Moses (R-Menomonie), follows the closure of major behavioral health facilities in the region, which left a significant gap in mental health and addiction treatment.

The new LSS-operated facility will offer 50 beds for medically monitored and transitional residential treatment.

“This grant is proof that strategic public-private partnerships can bring meaningful change to our communities,” said Héctor Colón, President and CEO of LSS. “Thanks to the leadership of Sen. Jesse James, Rep. Clint Moses, and all who supported this bill, LSS can help preserve and expand behavioral health and substance use treatment in the Chippewa Valley. These are much needed services for the community right now. LSS is ready to rise to the occasion.”

Read more about the provision here.