The Wellmark Foundation Announces Grant to Tackle Youth Mental and Behavioral Health Crisis in Iowa
The Wellmark Foundation is proud to announce a $5 million grant aimed at addressing the mental and behavioral health crisis among Iowa's youth. The School-Centered Behavioral Health Grant will support rural Iowa school districts, providing timely and convenient access to mental and behavioral health services.
Iowa youth face significant mental, behavioral and physical health challenges. In the past five years, approximately 20 percent of Iowa high school students reported seriously considering suicide, and around 40 percent reported experiencing persistent sadness.[i] In 2023, suicide was the second leading cause of death among Iowa youth ages 10–24.[ii] Parents and caregivers want to help but often face tough choices. For many working families in rural Iowa, getting care means taking time off and traveling long distances. Even after overcoming these hurdles, they frequently encounter months-long waits to see a provider. During a crisis, such delays can have severe consequences.
"Schools are the heart of our rural communities. They experience the struggles our children face and are in a unique position to intervene early and effectively,” said Laura Jackson, executive vice president of health improvement at Wellmark and chair of The Wellmark Foundation. “This grant will enable better health outcomes for our kids, meeting them where they are, removing barriers to mental and behavioral health care access and supporting the critical role schools play in the development of Iowa youth."
“We have seen firsthand the significant impact that accessible behavioral and mental health care has on our students,” said Ashley Dirks, principal, Albert City-Truesdale Elementary School. “With the integration of telehealth services, our students can receive the support they need without missing much class time.”
"In rural areas, this is a service that is very much needed,” said Kim Ellrich, board secretary, Albert City-Truesdale Consolidated School District. “The flexibility is crucial for our families, ensuring that our students remain engaged in their education while also addressing their mental health needs. We are grateful and happy that we can offer this vital support to our families.”
The School-Centered Behavioral Health Grant application will open to school districts beginning May 1, 2025. The application information, including eligibility criteria, is available on Wellmark.com/SchoolBehavioralHealthGrant. The Wellmark Foundation will award a maximum of one grant per school district and determine funding amounts based on student enrollment and the types of mental and behavioral health services requested. The application period will remain open until all funds have been distributed based on eligible and approved applications.
School-centered mental and behavioral health services can change the trajectory of a child’s life. Addressing behavioral health challenges early has undeniable benefits that help students develop social and emotional skills that are important to live a long, healthy life. This grant aims to reduce barriers for rural Iowa youth and their families to access critical services.
For more information, including school eligibility criteria, please visit Wellmark.com/SchoolBehavioralHealthGrant.