Nye Communities Coalition reports ARPA‑funded mental‑health, reentry and benefits work; plans equipment purchase for rapid blood testing

Representatives of Nye Communities Coalition updated commissioners on ARPA‑funded public‑health and homeless services during the May 7 meeting. DJ Mills reported that the program assisted 59 individuals reentering the community from local detention during the last quarter and provided wraparound services — identification assistance, job search help, behavioral‑health referrals and transportation — to support stabilization and re‑engagement.

Mills said the coalition helped 19 people apply for Social Security benefits and that six of those applicants are now receiving benefits, which Mills said "helps them to stabilize and live independently in our community." Mills also described plans to use remaining ARPA funds (about $8,921.70 in one line item) to purchase a point‑of‑care blood chemistry analyzer for free blood‑work clinics; the device cost was estimated at $16,000–$18,000 and would require matching fundraising.

Commissioners thanked the coalition for outreach and services; one commissioner asked for statistics on people served in both Pahrump and Tonopah, and Mills said the organization saw roughly 270 people in 2022 and surpassed that in 2023. No board action was required; staff will track future requests to use grant carryover to support the equipment purchase.