Grafton, North Dakota – Residents in the Grand Forks region should be aware of a delayed opening for the Northeast Behavioral Health Clinic’s Grafton outreach office today, Friday, March 13, 2026. The North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the two-hour delay due to hazardous weather conditions and unsafe road conditions, impacting access to vital behavioral health services.
The Grafton outreach office will now open at 10:00 a.m. Local time. HHS officials stated that the decision to delay the opening was made to ensure the safety of both clients and staff, aligning with similar closures and delays at other community clinics and government organizations in the area. Clients with pre-scheduled appointments are being directly contacted regarding the change in schedule.
For individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis, immediate facilitate is available through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This crucial resource operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing confidential support and assistance to those in require. The lifeline can be reached by simply dialing 988 from any phone.
Although the Grafton outreach office is experiencing a delay, North Dakota HHS emphasizes that other services remain accessible. Individuals needing to conduct child support business can continue to do so 24/7 through the program’s secure website at childsupport.dhs.nd.gov.
Weather Conditions Prompting the Delay
The decision to delay the opening of the Grafton office comes as North Dakota faces challenging weather conditions. While specific details regarding the nature of the hazardous weather were not immediately available, the HHS cited unsafe road conditions as a primary factor in the decision. The agency encourages residents to exercise caution while traveling and to stay informed about local weather updates.
Information regarding weather-related office closures and delays can be found on the HHS Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) pages, as well as on the agency’s website at hhs.nd.gov. Staying connected through these channels will provide the most up-to-date information regarding service availability.
Rural Healthcare Funding on the Horizon
The delayed opening comes as rural healthcare facilities in North Dakota are preparing for a significant funding boost through the federal Rural Health Transformation Program. According to a report from the Grand Forks Herald, the state has been awarded nearly $200 million – specifically $198,936 this year – to support rural health initiatives. Details on how to apply for these funds are expected to be released in mid-March, according to Jecca Geffre, communications director with the state’s Department of Health and Human Services.
Mark Bertilrud, CEO of Unity Medical Center in Grafton, stated that the funding is vital to his facility. The program, administered by the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, aims to address the growing strain on the state’s rural health system, a concern highlighted by state legislators who passed a bill concerning the program earlier this year.
The Rural Health Transformation Program was authorized through President Donald Trump’s Big Stunning Bill for rural health improvements, with investments expected to continue at similar levels annually. While the goals of the program are established, the specifics of the grant application process and deadlines have not yet been publicized.
Looking ahead, North Dakota HHS will continue to monitor weather conditions and assess their impact on service delivery. Updates regarding the Grafton outreach office and other facilities will be shared through official channels as they become available. Residents are encouraged to prioritize safety and utilize available resources during this period of inclement weather.
Please share this information with anyone who may be affected by the delayed opening. Your comments and questions are welcome below.
