The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) has allocated $33.4 million in grants to various community organizations across seven counties under the California Veterans Health Initiative, Mental Health Support Grant Program (CVHI-MHSGP). The objective of this funding is to enhance the availability of outpatient mental health services for California’s veterans and their families. The initiative aims to improve access to mental health care, decrease waiting times for appointments, and establish tailored mental health care specifically for veterans.
Additionally, the recipients of the CVHI grants will broaden mental health services available statewide, including telehealth options, ensuring greater accessibility for veterans and their families. The funding will also contribute to the growth of California’s mental health workforce, focusing on training and clinical supervision that prepares the next generation of professionals to serve the veteran community.
In a related effort, CalVet has received a $300,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to develop specialized suicide prevention strategies targeting Native American veterans. This initiative addresses the alarming rise in suicide rates among Native veterans, who already face unique challenges due to their cultural and historical backgrounds. The grant will support the formation of a committee featuring tribal representatives, mental health professionals, and community members to create culturally sensitive policies and programs aimed at improving mental health and suicide prevention awareness.
Furthermore, recently enacted legislation by Governor Newsom aims to streamline processes benefitting veterans and their families. New laws now allow counties to reimburse incorrectly charged property taxes paid by disabled veterans and surviving spouses. They also support military-connected students by designating certain public schools as California Purple Star schools, reducing their burdens. The new laws also aim to simplify income assessments, making affordable housing accessible to more veterans.
Lastly, Proposition 1, approved by California voters in March, signifies a substantial commitment towards assisting veterans facing homelessness, mental health issues, and substance use disorders. The proposition allocates 50% of its funding for permanent supportive housing specifically for veterans.
This initiative is a positive step toward enhancing the support systems available for our veterans, reflecting a growing recognition of their unique needs and the importance of mental health resources. As these programs expand and develop, they hold promise for making a meaningful impact on the lives of veterans and their families across California.