HOLLISTER, Calif. — Youth Recovery Connections in Hollister has been awarded $1.2 million as part of California’s $3.3 billion initiative to tackle mental health and homelessness. This funding will allow the nonprofit to expand its services for young people struggling with substance abuse, helping to address critical mental health needs in the region.
As part of a state-wide effort to combat mental health challenges across various populations, California is allocating substantial funding to dozens of organizations. Youth Recovery Connections, which primarily focuses on youth in need of support, was selected to receive the funding to purchase a new facility for expanded services.
“This funding is essential for us to provide both substance abuse and mental health treatment to underserved populations,” said Michael Salinas, Executive Director of Youth Recovery Connections.
The grant is a major boost for both the organization and San Benito County. With the new resources, the nonprofit expects to significantly increase its capacity, growing the number of clients it can serve from 200 to 9,000.
“There aren’t many providers offering substance abuse and mental health treatment in this area, so we hope to add to the services already available,” Salinas added.
Monica Hernandez, a staff member at Youth Recovery Connections, works closely with both parents and youth and sees firsthand the urgent need for these services. “Many parents believe that youth can overcome challenges on their own, but we need their support and guidance. We provide parents with the tools to better help their children,” Hernandez explained.
Through her work, Hernandez observes positive changes in both the youth and their families after just a few sessions. The new funding will help the organization provide crucial services such as substance abuse education, emotional support, and communication skills training.
“We see the transformation when both parents and youth work together. That’s what truly makes a difference,” Hernandez said.
In total, $131 million from the initiative will be distributed to seven organizations across California’s Central Coast, further strengthening the state’s efforts to support youth mental health and substance abuse recovery.
