The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), is offering funding through the Children’s Mental Health Initiative Services for Children with Serious Emotional Disturbances grant. This initiative is designed to improve mental health outcomes for children and youth from birth through age 21 who are at risk for or have been diagnosed with serious emotional disturbances (SED), along with providing support for their families. This program seeks to address the complex mental health needs of children by enhancing comprehensive, community-based services that ensure access to effective treatments and interventions.

The funding opportunity, identified as SM-25-002, is categorized as a discretionary grant and falls under the Health funding category. SAMHSA intends to support governmental units within states and territories, as well as federally recognized American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) tribes and tribal organizations, to establish or improve services for children with serious emotional disturbances. The initiative promotes a comprehensive approach to care that integrates community-based services, collaboration with mental health professionals, and family support to address the diverse needs of affected children and youth.

The total estimated funding for this opportunity is $13,000,000, with approximately ten awards expected to be distributed among eligible applicants. While a matching or cost-sharing requirement is noted, specific details on the amount or percentage required have not been provided. The funding instrument type for this opportunity is a grant, and it aligns with Assistance Listing Number 93.104, which supports comprehensive community mental health services for children with serious emotional disturbances.

Key dates for the funding opportunity include an estimated post date of April 15, 2025. However, the actual application due date, award announcement date, and project start date have not yet been determined. Since this is a forecasted opportunity, the final details are subject to change upon the official release of the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).

Applications will be evaluated based on their ability to demonstrate the capacity to provide comprehensive mental health services that are evidence-based, community-oriented, and family-driven. Applicants should highlight their ability to create systems of care that integrate behavioral health services with other social services to ensure holistic support for children and youth with SED.

For additional information or inquiries, interested applicants can contact the Center for Mental Health Services at (240) 276-1903 or via email at ChildrensMentalHealthInitiative@samhsa.hhs.gov.