JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – It was reported last week that Progress Inc. would be closing their Bridgepoint Transitional Living Home and consolidating staff and operation through the South Central Human Service Center.

The decision comes as the group tries to expand outreach services and redesign transitional living services to better meet area residents’ needs. Dan Cramer is the South Central Human Service Center Director.

Transitional living services allow people diagnosed with serious mental illness who may also have a co-occurring substance use disorder to gain self-care skills in a supportive recovery-focused residential setting. Program clients typically also receive treatment and recovery support services at a regional human service center.

Cramer says the change will come October 1st and staff will be moved to accommodate the expanded service.

By realigning services, Cramer says the center will be able to increase outpatient services and outreach for individuals with serious mental illness in the Jamestown region, which could reduce the need for a higher level of care such as crisis services or hospitalization.

The transitional living program will continue to help people transition to community living.