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. 

Campaign Resources and Events

Additional Resources

  • You are Not Alone – Mental Health Resources for Teens: Facing challenges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. This resource provides a list of local and national mental health support services tailored for teens. 
  • Brightline Kids: Brightline Kids offers personalized mental health support for children and teens, providing access to therapy, coaching, and resources. With a focus on mental well-being, Brightline helps young people build resilience and navigate life’s challenges in a safe, supportive environment.
  • Soluna: Soluna is a mental wellness app offering guided meditation and mindfulness tools to help manage stress and anxiety, promoting a balanced and peaceful mindset.
  • Youth at the Center Report – CYBHI: Explore the aspirations of children, youth, families, and community members for a transformed behavioral health ecosystem. The report is foundational to CYBHI’s efforts to ensure that their voices, needs, and lived experiences continue to guide every phase of our work. 
  • Working Paper – California’s Children & Youth Behavioral Health Ecosystem: This document underscores the importance of public education and our change campaign. Delve into Appendix D, page 44, for further insights.
  • Positive Parenting: Empower yourself with effective strategies to enhance your parenting skills.
  • You Are Never A Bother: Find solace and encouragement during challenging times.
  • CalHOPE: Discover a safe and supportive environment for mental health support and assistance.