2026 News Releases

As the one-year anniversary of the devastating May 16, 2025, tornado that heavily damaged St. Louis approaches, Governor Mike Kehoe today recognized the state, local, and federal efforts to help the city recover.

“From the moment the deadly tornado touched down, the State of Missouri’s assistance to St. Louis has matched the spirit of the residents who rallied to support neighbors and rebuild in the aftermath of the tragic loss of life and tremendous adversity,” Governor Kehoe said. “As a proud product of North St. Louis City, I am particularly appreciative of how our state agencies, the Missouri General Assembly, and local nonprofits and businesses continue to come together to support the people of St. Louis.”

The state and federal recovery effort totals well over $350 million, and includes:

• $147 million in FEMA and state assistance went to over 9,400 St. Louis City households for temporary housing, home repairs, replacement of essential property, and the repair and rebuilding of public infrastructure.
• An additional $23.8 million in state funds for direct assistance to St. Louisans impacted by the tornado for home repairs, rental assistance, and temporary housing through a state appropriation to the Missouri Housing Trust Fund.
• The State of Missouri’s unprecedented budgetary commitment of $100 million in designated funding for St. Louis’ recovery, including for the demolition and removal of debris from private property in the city’s tornado destruction zone, and $1.25 million to the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, Inc. for direct relief to victims.
• The recovery of over $46 million by the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance on behalf of insured Missourians who were initially denied payments by insurance companies. 
• A total of $36.4 million in low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Association to homeowners, renters, and businesses in the City of St. Louis that were impacted by the tornado.

The state government built Missouri's first-ever Private Property Debris Removal (PPDR) program from scratch to remove debris from private property and clear the way for the removal of FEMA-eligible severely damaged homes. Working with the City of St. Louis, the team has navigated mandatory environmental safeguards, including the abatement of hazardous materials like asbestos and lead, to ensure that demolition does not compromise air quality or public health. Seven specialized contracts have been secured, including three for demolition and debris removal, a dedicated monitoring service for strict site oversight, and three consulting agreements to meet historical preservation requirements.

Through May 7, 2026, SEMA has received 109 demolition packets for properties in the St. Louis City Private Property Debris Removal program. SEMA will continue to review these submissions as they are received from the city.

For non-FEMA eligible tornado-damaged properties, $10 million in state funding from Senate Bill 1 was allocated to the city for a pilot project to cover demolition costs for 120 properties along major street corridors.

“Debris removal is underway and we recognize the multiple barriers and obstacles that our team has overcome in this process. In an area where many families did not have insurance and many properties did not qualify for federal assistance, it was critical for us to find a path forward to rebuild and make progress,” continued Governor Kehoe. “On behalf of my office and our state agencies, I want to thank Mayor Spencer and city partners, as well as Missouri’s federal delegation and FEMA for their continued efforts to make St. Louis whole again, and even better than before.”

Missouri’s response and recovery efforts over the past year have also included ongoing coordinated support across numerous state departments and agencies:

Public Safety and Emergency Response

The Department of Public Safety, State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), and Missouri State Highway Patrol coordinated emergency response operations, managed FEMA recovery programs, supported infrastructure repair projects, and assisted thousands of impacted residents. Missouri Task Force 1 conducted structural searches and assessments immediately following the storm, while the Missouri Structural Assessment and Visual Evaluation (SAVE) Coalition helped inspect more than 6,700 damaged structures across St. Louis.

The Missouri National Guard deployed engineer teams to assist with debris collection, transportation, and removal operations throughout impacted neighborhoods.

Housing, Cleanup, and Infrastructure Recovery

SEMA and the Office of Administration partnered to implement Missouri’s first-ever Private Property Debris Removal program, helping build the path toward clearing debris and demolishing unsafe structures while coordinating recovery operations with local and federal partners.

The Department of Natural Resources provided regulatory flexibility and technical assistance to help ensure debris removal efforts were conducted safely and efficiently, including support related to hazardous materials and asbestos inspection.

The Missouri Housing Development Commission committed significant housing resources to support displaced residents, with more than 240 households already receiving assistance through community service providers.

Family and Community Support Services

The Department of Mental Health deployed the Behavioral Health Strike team and Show Me Hope crisis counselors to provide immediate and ongoing psychological support for impacted residents in shelters, disaster assistance centers, and throughout the community.

The Department of Social Services secured federal approval to replace SNAP benefits lost during the disaster, resulting in more than $1.6 million in benefits reissued to over 9,200 Missourians.

The Department of Revenue operated a mobile office, which assisted over 300 impacted residents with driver license and motor vehicle documentation.

The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development assisted displaced workers through disaster unemployment assistance and workforce recovery efforts tied to cleanup and rebuilding projects.

Consumer Protection and Insurance Assistance

The Department of Commerce and Insurance continues assisting storm victims navigating the insurance claims process. In 2025 alone, the department recovered a record $46.2 million statewide on behalf of Missouri consumers through mediation efforts and provided direct assistance to thousands of impacted residents at recovery events across the region.

As the one-year mark of the devasting tornado approaches, it is common for people to experience an increase in anxiety, fear, fatigue, grief, and more. The Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH) is free, confidential, and available 24/7 via text or telephone call for anyone experiencing distress or needing additional support. The DDH can be reached at 1-800-985-5990. To find local crisis counseling visit MoShowMeHope.org.

Three remarkable Missourians who have overcome mental health challenges will be celebrated on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at the Mental Health Champions’ Banquet hosted by the Missouri Mental Health Foundation (MMHF).  The event will take place at the Capital Plaza Hotel in Jefferson City and recognize the following Champions: Stephanie Robinson of Joplin, Matt Chinn of Jefferson City, and Brandon Borders of Kirksville. MMHF will also present a “Lasting Legacy” award at the banquet to the President and CEO of the Missouri Behavioral Health Council (MBHC) for his leadership in advancing behavioral health policy and expanding access to integrated care across Missouri and beyond.

“These individual Champions have meaningful roles in their communities and promote the importance of self-determination, recovery, and education about mental health,” said Katie Andrews, Executive Director of MMHF. “Their personal stories and accomplishments are inspiring.”

Stephanie Robinson

Stephanie Robinson is Executive Director of NAMI Southwest Missouri and a leading voice for mental health advocacy, recovery, and resilience. Drawing on her lived experience with anxiety, panic disorder, and agoraphobia, which once left her homebound for 16 years, she now shares her story to inspire hope and reduce stigma. Under her leadership, NAMI Southwest Missouri has expanded access to services, strengthened suicide prevention efforts, and built partnerships across communities. Stephanie also oversees the Hope Center in Springfield and has led initiatives such as the Neon Night 5K and support for Eden Village. Her work continues to advance understanding, inclusion, and recovery for individuals across Missouri.

Matt Chinn

Matt Chinn is a recovery advocate and community leader from Jefferson City dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and wellness. In long-term recovery from substance use disorder, he has transformed personal challenges into a platform for helping others and reducing stigma. Since 2019, Matt has shared his story to inspire recovery and support others on similar journeys. He founded the Capital City Race; a half marathon focused on mental health awareness that brings together community partners and supports local recovery efforts. A personal trainer and owner of Downtown Fitness, Matt promotes whole-person wellness and remains actively involved in Alcoholics Anonymous and community outreach.

Brandon Borders

Brandon Borders is a teen advocate from Kirksville whose leadership, compassion, and courage are making a meaningful impact in his community. Diagnosed with autism, he uses his lived experience to promote acceptance, inclusion, and self-advocacy for individuals with developmental disabilities and mental health needs. Brandon has spoken with state leaders to advocate for disability services and has been recognized with two SB40 Spotlight Award nominations. Active in Boy Scouts and Special Olympics Missouri, he continues to build leadership skills while supporting his peers. Brandon aspires to work in human services and is dedicated to creating a more inclusive and supportive community.

Lasting Legacy – Brent McGinty

Brent McGinty is a behavioral health leader based in Jefferson City, Missouri. He holds degrees in history and political science from Missouri Southern State University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Missouri. After beginning his career in local government and later serving in the Missouri Senate and Department of Mental Health, Brent joined the Missouri Behavioral Health Council in 2012, where he serves as President and CEO. He is committed to advancing access to high-quality behavioral healthcare and promoting whole-person wellness across Missouri. MMFH is pleased to celebrate his Lasting Legacy.

Governor Mike Kehoe has ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome to shine green beginning at sunset on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, until sunrise on Thursday, May 7, 2026, in recognition of May as Mental Health Awareness Month and May 3 - 9, 2026, as Children’s Mental Health Week.

“Every Missourian deserves to live in a community that supports mental well‑being and promotes understanding, hope, and connection,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us of our shared responsibility to foster supportive environments, reduce stigma, and ensure access to care for all Missourians.”

The dome lighting aligns with the Children’s Mental Health Week activities across Missouri. NAMI Missouri and partner organizations recognize this week with awareness activities and bell-ringing events.

“This lighting serves as a powerful reminder of our shared commitment to supporting the mental health and well‑being of Missourians,” said Valerie Huhn, Director of the Department of Mental Health. “By working together to elevate awareness and encourage early support and treatment, we can build a future where every Missourian has the opportunity to thrive.”

Missourians are encouraged to “Ring a Bell for Hope.” Take a photo or make a recording of ringing a bell during May and post it to social media with the hashtag #Ring4Hope. 

If you are experiencing a mental health, suicide, or substance use crisis, or any other emotional distress, call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org/chat.

View Governor Kehoe's proclamation at this link. 

The 12th Annual Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Conference will be held Thursday and Friday, April 9 & 10, 2026, at the Margaritaville Lake Resort in Osage Beach, MO. More than 800 law enforcement officers, other first responders and behavioral health professionals are expected to attend. The purpose of CIT is to address the challenges that often arise when law enforcement officers encounter individuals with behavioral health conditions in crisis situations. 

This year’s conference will feature dynamic speakers, crisis resources such as 988, mobile crisis response, and behavioral health crisis centers, as well as awards to recognize individuals from across the state. 

Specific agenda information is available on the CIT Conference website.
 

Media can contact Missouri Behavioral Health Council (MBHC) at events@mobhc.org. 

Location: Margaritaville Lake Resort, Lake of the Ozarks, 494 Tan Tar A Drive, Osage Beach, MO 65065.

Missouri Department of Mental Health Director and NASDDDS Board President Valerie Huhn has been selected to serve on the Healthcare Advisory Committee, a new federal advisory body comprised of leaders from across the healthcare system who will provide expert recommendations to help improve patient care and modernize the U.S. healthcare system.

Huhn is one of 18 members selected through a competitive review process that drew more than 400 nominations nationwide. Members of the Committee will serve two-year terms and meet regularly throughout the year in open, public meetings. The Committee will advise U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz on improving care delivery and financing across major federal healthcare programs.

As Director of the Missouri Department of Mental Health, Huhn leads a state agency with more than $4 billion in budget authority, more than 6,500 employees, and responsibility for serving approximately 170,000 Missourians and their families. During her tenure, she has advanced innovations in technology-first service delivery, data integration dashboards, Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic implementation, managed care redesign, and housing partnerships for people with disabilities.

Huhn has also provided stellar leadership at the national level through her service as a member of the CMS Home and Community-Based Services Access Workgroup and to the National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities Services (NASDDDS). As President of the NASDDDS Board of Directors, she has helped guide the association’s efforts to support state systems serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, with a strong emphasis on innovation, cross-system collaboration, and practical strategies that strengthen person-centered supports. Her leadership has helped elevate state perspectives in national conversations on Medicaid, workforce, technology, and system transformation.

“Val brings exceptional leadership, deep policy expertise, and a strong commitment to improving systems of support for people and families,” said NASDDDS Executive Director Mary Sowers. “Through her leadership in Missouri and her service to NASDDDS, she has consistently advanced thoughtful, forward-looking approaches that strengthen public systems and improve lives. We are thrilled to see her selected for this important role and know she will bring an invaluable perspective to the Committee’s work.”

Prior to becoming Director of the Missouri Department of Mental Health in 2022, Huhn held senior leadership roles within the department, Missouri’s Medicaid agency MO HealthNet, and the Office of Administration’s Division of Budget and Planning. She has presented nationally on topics including conflict-of-interest mitigation in case management, business acumen development, operational excellence, and integrated primary and behavioral healthcare. 

For more information contact, Debra Walker at the Missouri Department of Mental Health, debra.walker@dmh.mo.gov or Carrie McGraw with NASDDDS at cmcgraw@nasddds.org. 

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The Missouri Department of Mental Health serves approximately 170,000 Missourians annually through state-operated facilities and contracts with private organizations and individuals. The department is composed of three divisions: the Division of Behavioral Health, the Division of Developmental Disabilities, and the Division of Administrative Services, as well as seven support offices. Its mission is to serve, empower and support all Missourians to live their best lives.

The National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities Services (NASDDDS) represents state agencies, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, and Puerto Rico providing services to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. NASDDDS promotes visionary leadership, systems innovation, and the development of national policies that support home and community-based services for individuals with disabilities and their families

The Third Annual Report was released on March 2, 2026, by the Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH) who is the lead agency for reporting opioid settlement expenditures.

Section 196.1050 RSMo., established the Opioid Addiction Treatment and Recovery Fund, into which all monetary proceeds are deposited for the State of Missouri’s share of settlement distributions.  According to the Memorandum of Understanding between the State of Missouri, the state’s political subdivisions and the national opioid settlement administrators, each recipient of settlement funds must provide the General Assembly with reporting details of the following for the preceding year:

• The amount of settlement funds received;
• Details on how settlement funds were spent; and
• Whether each expenditure fits within an approved use.

The Third Annual Report as well as other opioid settlement information can be found on the DMH website pages specifically established for public reporting: MOOpioidSettlements. (https://moopioidsettlements.dmh.mo.gov/).

DMH continues to work with the Attorney General’s Office, the Missouri Association of Counties, and the Missouri Municipal League to communicate settlement reporting requirements.

The Missouri Mental Health Foundation, in collaboration with the Department of Mental Health (DMH), is proud to present the 2026 Director’s Creativity Showcase Wednesday, March 4, 2026. The art exhibit will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the DMH Central Office at 1706 E. Elm Street, Jefferson City, MO.

“Making the art available for public viewing is just one of the ways we can help reduce stigma associated with having a mental illness, developmental disability, or substance use disorders,” says Katie Andrews, Executive Director of the Missouri Mental Health Foundation. “The artwork is inspiring and shows the amazing talents of many individuals faced with mental health issues.”

The artwork is created not only for the showcase, but also as a means of therapy and recreation by people with developmental disabilities, mental illness, or in recovery from substance use disorders served by the Department of Mental Health. 

The Missouri Mental Health Foundation’s mission is to raise awareness and public understanding of the many issues that impact individuals and families who are living with mental illness, developmental disabilities, and substance use disorders. Its efforts battle stigma and discrimination, promote care and treatment and foster inclusion in the community and the workforce.

For more information contact Katie Andrews at the Missouri Mental Health Foundation at (573) 635-9201 or e-mail katie.andrews@missourimhf.org.