Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam

When facing a budget cut, what is the BEST action a community mental health agency could take to replenish supplies?

1. Reduce staff hours to save costs

2. Develop other funding resources to purchase supplies

3. Limit client services to save resources

4. Request donations from the local community

The correct answer is: Develop other funding resources to purchase supplies

Developing other funding resources to purchase supplies is the most strategic action a community mental health agency can take when faced with budget cuts. This approach not only addresses the immediate need for supplies but also allows the agency to create a sustainable financial plan for the future. By seeking new funding opportunities—such as grants, fundraising campaigns, or partnerships with local businesses—the agency can enhance its financial stability and reduce reliance on a limited budget. Establishing additional funding sources also aligns with the broader mission of community mental health organizations, which is to provide accessible services and resources to the community. It empowers the agency to maintain or even expand its capacity to serve clients effectively, ensuring that essential supplies are available without compromising the quality of care. Other approaches, like reducing staff hours or limiting client services, might yield short-term savings but could have detrimental effects on service delivery and staff morale. Requesting donations from the local community can be helpful, but it may not guarantee a consistent and reliable influx of resources needed to sustain supply needs, making it less effective compared to actively developing diverse funding mechanisms.