Regretfully we all "pay" by underfunding a full continuum of community mental health services - from crisis intervention and acute services, to long term housing assistance, support and the resources for consumers as well as families/ caregivers. Children, teens, adults and elders who may experience mental health concerns at one point or another in their lives can have productive lives if provided adequate support, proper medication if needed, therapeutic interventions if required. Jails, Emergency Departments and streets are not a dignified - or cost effective - alternative.