Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative

On February 20, 2024, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), through The Public Health Institute Center for Wellness and Nutrition, awarded $25 million to 28 community-based and tribal organizations for the CDPH, Office of Health Equity’s (OHE) Local-Level Public Education and Change Campaigns. This campaign is part of the CDPH, OHE Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI).

Youth-Centered Mental Health Initiatives

The 28 organizations will develop culturally, linguistically, and age-appropriate campaigns aimed at reducing stigma and discrimination, and connect individuals, families, and caregivers to the appropriate resources they need around mental, emotional, and behavioral health promotion, prevention, treatment, maintenance, and wellness.

The campaigns will be youth centered and co-created representing our five priority populations: African Americans/Black, Native Americans, Asians and Pacific Islanders, Latinos, and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Questioning communities with special consideration for transitional-age youth, persons with disabilities, justice and foster care involved youth, and those living in rural areas. The full list of grantees can be found here: Local- Level Campaigns Award Announcement.

The full RFA announcement is available here: CDPH, OHE CYBHI Local-Level Public Education and Change Campaigns RFA. This document includes background, funding information, eligibility criteria, a description of the scope of work and complete selection and evaluation criteria. Additionally, the RFA Workplan Template, Budget Template, Budget Worksheet, and Budget Justification are available for download. 

Upcoming Events and Campaign Resources

Upcoming Events
  • Spring In-Person Convening: Unite and Innovate
    • Highlighting collaboration and creative solutions in addressing behavioral health challenges
    • May 1-2, 2025 | Anaheim, CA                                                   
    • Learn More and Register Here: Spring Convening Registration
      • Please note: This event is not open to the public.  
Campaign Resources 
CYBHI Test, Share, Learning (TSL) Labs
In-Person Convening

General Resources

Take Space to Pause

This CYBHI statewide campaign is made for teens and by teens. It aims to reduce self-stigma around mental health challenges and promotes positive help-seeking behaviors. The campaign focuses on “breaking points”—moments when stress becomes overwhelming—helping teens identify effective coping strategies.

Mental Health Support for Children, Teens, and Families 
  • Brightline Kids: Personalized mental health support for children and teens, offering therapy, coaching, and resources to build resilience and navigate life’s challenges in a safe, supportive environment.
  • CalHOPE: A safe and supportive space for mental health assistance.
  • You Are Never A Bother: Find solace and encouragement during challenging times.
  • Positive Parenting: Empower yourself with effective strategies to enhance your parenting skills
Immediate Support
Media
Reports and Publications