AAMA receives $7.6 Million Grant for Latino Mental Health Care in Houston
Houston’s Latino community is celebrating a significant win as the Association for the Advancement of Mexican-Americans (AAMA) secures a game-changing $7.6 million grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The grant aims to break down barriers to mental health care and promote accessibility.
AAMA’s strategy involves placing clinicians strategically in hospitals, universities, and high-risk areas, making culturally sensitive treatment easily reachable. This initiative addresses the stigma surrounding mental health care in the Latino community.
Patrick Rocha, AAMA’s Senior Director, emphasizes the urgency of change. Currently, only 35.1% of Hispanic or Latinx adults with mental illness receive treatment, far below the U.S. average of 46.2%. Cultural factors contribute to this disparity.
Beyond individuals, the grant spotlights the importance of family and community support. Rocha underscores that mental health affects entire families, necessitating holistic approaches.
AAMA extends its commitment to youth. An additional SAMHSA award will enable tailored care for individuals aged 12 to 25, aiming to equip them early with the necessary tools.
With the $7.6 million grant, Houston’s Latino community is embarking on a transformative journey toward inclusive and accessible mental health care. Through strategic clinician placement, comprehensive family support, and youth empowerment, this initiative heralds a new era of healing and unity.
Source: Houston Public Media
Sandra Fernandez is a professional communicator, tech enthusiast, book lover, and blogger. You can find her main blog at SandraSays.com and more of her writing at HispanicHouston.com.