The Healthy Petaluma Foundation announced that $285,000 in grants have been awarded to 18 nonprofit organizations in Sonoma County that prioritize equitable mental health treatment, prevention, education and intervention services.
Grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 will fund operational needs, initiatives and programs to advance mental health services in Petaluma, Sonoma, Kenwood, Glen Ellen, Rohnert Park and Cotati.
Of the 18 organizations that received grants, eight were awarded the maximum amount of $20,000 each. According to the release, they are Child Parent Institute, Committee on the Shelterless, North Bay Children’s Center, Pediatric Dental Initiative, Petaluma Health Center, Petaluma People Services Center, Redwood Empire Food Bank and SOS Community Counseling. The funds will be distributed in early January and must be used within six months.
The Healthy Petaluma Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supported by the Southern Sonoma County Health District, collectively known as the Healthy Petaluma District and Foundation. The Healthy Petaluma Foundation General Operating Support Grant Program began in the fall.
“As a newly formed foundation, we are thrilled to support our first grantees. Nonprofits are the backbone of providing needed services, and as their funding declines and service disparities become more prevalent, we are thrilled to support our first grantees. Healthy Petaluma District and Foundation CEO Ramona Faith said in a Feb. 13 news release. “Our focus this cycle was on mental health, which is one of the most important areas of need that impacts the well-being of our community.”
Brian Dufour, director of the Healthy Petaluma Foundation, who served on the grant review committee, said in a statement: “These grants not only reflect Healthy Petaluma’s unwavering commitment to our community, but they also set the stage for change in health and well-being.” Be local.
“Our board, staff, and grant selection committee took great care in selecting this first GOS grant recipient. This is a testament to our efforts.”
