The Youth Peer-to-Peer Support Program is an innovative collaboration between the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) and The Children’s Partnership (TCP), awarding $8 million in grants to initiate peer-to-peer support programs in up to eight high schools across diverse Californian communities. This pilot initiative focuses on grades 9-12, aiming to establish and standardize best practices for peer-to-peer mental and behavioral health support systems within the school environment. Peer support in California high schools is a key strategy for promoting mental health resilience and well-being among adolescents. By embedding these supportive structures in the educational system it lays the groundwork for statewide peer-to-peer mental health strategies, enhancing empathy, resilience, and solidarity among youth.
Define best practices and develop statewide standards for peer-to-peer support programs.
Increase equity and diversity while promoting peer-to-peer supports for youth.
Request for Proposals released by TCP in January 2024
Executed a contract with TCP, who convened an advisory board to inform the design of the peer-to-peer California High School Pilot program and issued a Request for Proposals to identify high schools for the High School Youth Peer-To-Peer Demonstration Pilot.
Hosted six listening sessions to engage children and youth.
Convened an advisory panel to inform grant design.
Executed subcontract with Youth Leadership Institute for youth outreach.
