On September 15, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) awarded an additional $16.3 million to 34 nonprofits to support youth suicide prevention efforts by nonprofit organizations throughout the state.
The Center at Sierra Health Foundation has been designated to manage and administer these awards, varying between $300,000 to $500,000 each, under Assembly Bill (AB) 178. These investments are allocated to support the Youth Suicide Prevention Media and Outreach Campaign. Our grantees are carefully selected organizations and community partners who exhibit cultural humility and responsiveness, and work diligently to instill staff and organizational leadership that reflect the racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds of the communities they aim to serve.
This campaign has a laser focus on addressing youth that are statistically and disproportionately affected by suicide, specifically those who are American Indian, Alaskan Native, Hispanic/Latinx populations, and African American/Black. Additionally, we extend our support to intersectional populations, which include youth facing mental health conditions and/or substance use challenges, those who have been adversely impacted by the foster care system, and 2S/LGBTQ+ youth.
“California’s youth are the heartbeat of our future. Sadly, too many are dying by suicide or wrestling with suicidal thoughts and feelings on their own. When they are unwell, we are all grieved,” said Chet P. Hewitt, CEO of The Center at Sierra Health Foundation. “We believe that community organizations closest to young people are critical to reaching youth. The Center is grateful to partner with the California Department of Public Health on the Youth Suicide Prevention Media and Outreach Campaign to connect young people with hope and culturally competent mental health resources through community-based organizations.”
Read the full award announcement on the CDPH newsroom.
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