CalHOPE: Supporting Californians In Times of Crisis

After enduring more than a year of COVID-19 related stress, challenges, isolation, and loss, nearly 50% of adults are reporting negative mental health impacts due to the pandemic. Reports of new or increased symptoms of anxiety and depression have reached staggering rates. As we all continue to navigate the dynamics related to COVID-19 – masking practices, vaccinations, and getting together with friends and family – states are working diligently to expand access to services to support those struggling with their mental health.Following a presidential disaster declaration, individual states are given the opportunity to apply for short-term grants through the Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training Program (CCP). The CCP is funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in partnership with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to support community-based outreach, counseling, and other mental health services. Historically, the CCP model has helped people recover and rebuild their lives following natural disasters like wildfires, floods, and tornados. But this pandemic has posed unique challenges – limited face-to-face interactions, lack of clearly defined geographic impact areas, and no clear end date – forcing states to be innovative in identifying strategies to support individuals and communities.California’s Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) is using their CCP grant to implement CalHOPE. CalHOPE is designed to build community resiliency and help people recover through free outreach, crisis counseling, and support services.CalHOPE uses several complimentary layers of intervention and support to engage Californians and connect them to support services. DHCS has developed and implemented a robust media strategy to raise awareness about CalHOPE, including through high-visibility campaigns with the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Kings and providing resources to support mental health and emotional well-being. DHCS also maintains the CalHOPE website, which is a one-stop shop for mental health resources and information.DHCS is also working statewide with project partners to provide free outreach, crisis counseling, and support services to all California residents. The Mental Health Association of San Francisco operates a “warm line” which connects callers to other people who have similarly persevered through struggles with stress, anxiety, and depression. The California Mental Health Services Authority operates CalHOPE Connect, which offers safe, secure, and culturally sensitive emotional support for all Californians through live chat and support groups. Finally, the California Consortium for Urban Indian Health operates the CalHOPE Red Line offering phone, chat, and video chat services to Urban Indian and Tribal populations.At Aurrera Health Group, we are proud to support DHCS and other CCP project partners to bring these much-needed resources to California residents. If you or your loved ones need support or someone to talk to, CalHOPE is here to help. 

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Authors

Courtney Kashiwagi [Director]