Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH), through the Public Health Institute’s Center for Wellness and Nutrition (PHI CWN), has awarded $25 million to 28 community-based and tribal organizations as part of the CDPH, Office of Health Equity’s (OHE) Local-Level Public Education and Change Campaigns. This initiative is a key component of the CDPH, OHE Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI).

Youth-Centered Mental Health Initiatives

The 28 awarded organizations are designing youth-centered, culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health campaigns focused on reducing stigma and discrimination while promoting emotional and behavioral wellness. The campaigns are 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.

Upcoming Events and Campaign Resources

Explore upcoming events and access a variety of campaign resources designed to support behavioral health initiatives. From virtual webinars to in-person convenings and recorded learning labs, these opportunities foster collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and innovation across the field.

General Resources

Discover a wide range of general resources that support youth mental health and well-being, from teen-led campaigns to immediate support services and family-focused tools. Explore engaging media, mental wellness apps, and in-depth reports that highlight progress and guide the transformation of California’s behavioral health ecosystem.