ROME TOWNSHIP — A local adult care facility has been awarded a share of state money aimed at improving care for those with alcohol, drug addiction and mental health problems.

Pannell Personal Care, on Williams Street off County Road 243, has been awarded $30,000 from the Ohio Department of Mental Health.

ODMH recently awarded $3 million in grants statewide to 123 adult care facilities throughout the state. Pannell was the only local center to be awarded the money, according to ODMH. More than 300 grant proposals were submitted.

“We are really excited about this. This is the first time that there has ever been this type of program,” said William Pannell, who owns the center with his wife, Kathleen.

The Pannells started their business in 2001; they currently take care of eight residents, ranging in age from 45 to 90 years old, who have wide-ranging mental impairments and some minor health problems.

Pannell said the money secured through the grant will be used to purchase a new van, which will be used frequently to take the residents on outings. Money will be also used to replace appliances at the center and to upgrade office equipment.

“When we applied for the grant, we wanted to apply for money that would help us provide services that enhance the quality of life and give the residents more community interaction,” Pannell said. “The grant is also important in that it improves living conditions.”