Community-Based Service Providers Are Critical to Prop. 1’s Success; Measure Offers Opportunity to Focus on Early Intervention for Children and Youth

Immediate Release: 03/21/24
Contact: Andy Rolleri
arolleri@cacfs.org

Community-Based Service Providers Are Critical to Prop. 1’s Success;
Measure Offers Opportunity to Focus on Early Intervention for Children and Youth

Sacramento, CA – The California Alliance of Child and Family Services (CA Alliance) released the following statement from CEO Christine Stoner-Mertz today following the passage of Proposition 1:

“Voters have approved Proposition 1 at a time when California is experiencing a very visible humanitarian crisis of homelessness and untreated mental illness; meanwhile, a less visible crisis in children’s behavioral health is playing out in our homes and schools. The California Alliance of Child and Family Services stands ready to partner with the state and counties to ensure the transformational measure is implemented in a way that meets the goals of reducing homelessness now and providing the early interventions necessary to ensure today’s youth in crisis never reach the streets.

“The CA Alliance worked closely with the Administration and Legislature to ensure Prop 1’s changes protect and invest in prevention and treatment for youth and families with behavioral health needs. The revamped Behavioral Health Services Act, formerly known as the Mental Health Services Act, allocates funds for early interventions and prevention for children and youth under 25.

“Alliance members, non-profit service providers deeply connected to California’s diverse communities, are particularly excited about the chance to serve more children and youth through early intervention services. By ensuring young people get the behavioral health treatment they need sooner rather than later, California can promote successful outcomes for youth and prevent more from falling into homelessness.

“We look forward to continued partnership with the state and counties to ensure California’s children, youth, and families have the care they need to thrive.”

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The California Alliance: The collective voice for organizations that serve children, youth, and families. For those dedicated to improving the lives of these at-risk populations, the California Alliance stands apart as the champion and leading voice for organizations that advocate for children, youth, and families and for advancing policy and services on their behalf.