We are pleased to announce that the Board of Directors of the Fallbrook Regional Health District (FRHD) has once again awarded grants for FY 2022/2023 for our Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds and Grandparents Raising Grandchildren programs for residents of the communities served by FRHD.
While the District prepares to launch a fully serviced Community Health & Wellness Center, the Board has indicated that they are motivated to keep grant funding available. Great news for residents, particularly those who are underserved.
Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds
Mental health is foundationally and fundamentally tied to physical health, the prevention of serious health conditions, and the practice of healthy behaviors.
Over the past five years, Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds (HBHM) has become an integral part of a full range of comprehensive mental and behavioral health services provided by PFCS and funded by FRHD. Where barriers to access exist HBHM has been the resource to address service-delivery gaps and provide convenient and affordable access to individuals who would not otherwise receive services.
Our clientele includes children, adolescents, families and adults who are often low income and struggle with emotional and mental health problems, behavioral issues, stress, isolation, and insufficient support systems. Over 60% of those we serve are Latino, many are Spanish only speakers. In partnership with the FRHD we have been instrumental in reducing the disparity in access to professional, culturally competent, mental and behavioral health services.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
When parents are unable to raise their children, it is often grandparents who step in. Grandfamilies thrive when they get the support they need. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren is a comprehensive service that fosters healthy grandparents and a strong and stable family.
In only its second year of operation, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (GRG) has increased in size, scope, awareness and reputation. Enrollment in the program increased 45% from last year.
Over the past two years, we have created strong collaborative relationships with Elder Law & Advocacy (legal aid), The Social Care Network, Fallbrook Senior Center, Aging & Independence Services, Southern Caregiver Resource Center, The Oceanside Kitchen Collaborative, The Food Pantry, local schools, The San Diego Regional Center, In Home Support Services, and Interfaith Community Services. These relationships improve our ability to effectively serve grandfamilies.
We have also connected closely with the YMCA’s Kinship Program. The Kinship program does not extend as far north as FRHD communities, but they have agreed to collaborate and support GRG with information and resources. PFCS and the Boys and Girls Club continue to collaborate; this is particularly helpful during school holidays and breaks so that grandparents can receive much needed respite.
With the support of FRHD, we look forward to another successful year.
