Question 1

What federal agencies fund mental health grants?

Accepted Answer

SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) is the primary federal mental health funder, with block grants and competitive programs for treatment, prevention, and recovery support. NIH's National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) funds research. HRSA funds mental health in underserved communities.

Question 2

Are there federal grants for crisis intervention programs?

Accepted Answer

Yes — SAMHSA funds the Community Mental Health Services Block Grant, the Mental Health Crisis Care Continuum grant, and the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The Bureau of Justice Assistance also funds crisis intervention teams (CIT) and mental health courts at the local level.

Question 3

Can nonprofits apply for SAMHSA mental health grants?

Accepted Answer

Yes — nonprofits, community mental health centers, federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), and state and local governments are all eligible for SAMHSA competitive grants. The Community Mental Health Services Block Grant flows to states, which sub-grant to local mental health organizations.

Question 4

What is the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and how is it funded?

Accepted Answer

The 988 Lifeline is a federal crisis network funded by SAMHSA grants to states and crisis centers. SAMHSA distributes funding for call center staffing, training, and chat and text services. States and local crisis centers can apply for SAMHSA grants to build 988 Lifeline capacity.

Mental Health Grants