In commemoration of Trauma and Mental Health Awareness Month, Pennsylvania’s Shapiro administration announced several initiatives aimed at strengthening mental health services across the state. Governor Josh Shapiro allocated significant funding to support mental health programs in both the 2023-24 and 2024-25 state budgets. This includes $100 million for K-12 school mental health services, an annual increase of $20 million for community-based mental health services from 2025 to 2026, and $10 million for 988 crisis hotline operations. dollars, including $5 million for walk-in mental health crisis stabilization. Center.
In addition, HEAL PA, Pennsylvania’s statewide trauma coalition, is collaborating with various state ministries to host yoga sessions and art displays featuring ceramic masks to help residents minimize mental health issues. We offer public events focused on mental health, including exhibitions.
Dr. Christina Finello of the Pennsylvania Behavioral Health Council emphasized creating a roadmap to improve access, affordability, and quality of mental health and substance use care services. OMHSAS Deputy Secretary Jennifer Smith emphasized the importance of addressing behavioral health to support the well-being of all Pennsylvanians. The state is also working on the national #WeHealUS campaign to promote trauma-informed services.
For more information, the public can visit the HEAL PA website or follow us on social media platforms for updates.
