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Florida Blue Foundation's Commitment to Mental Health

In celebration of National Depression Awareness Month this October, the Florida Blue Foundation, part of the GuideWell family, is making significant strides towards improving mental health outcomes across Florida. The organization has announced an impressive $2.75 million investment in eight community-based programs aimed at addressing the pressing mental health needs of Floridians, while also expanding the mental health workforce in the state.

Addressing Mental Health Needs

Florida is currently ranked 35th among U.S. states in terms of mental illness prevalence, yet faces a severe shortage of mental health providers. A staggering six million Floridians lack adequate access to mental health care, highlighting the urgent need for solutions. According to Brian Pieninck, CEO of GuideWell and Florida Blue, "Health begins in our communities, emphasizing the crucial role of accessibility and support in fostering well-being."

Key Programs Funded

The 2025 mental well-being grants will support various innovative programs, including:

1. Ascension Sacred Heart Foundation (Escambia County): This program embeds a licensed mental health therapist in Studer Family Children's Hospital, serving over 38,000 individuals in 10 rural counties. The aim is to provide comprehensive mental health services, including individual, family, and group therapy.

2. Be Strong International, Inc. (Miami-Dade and Broward counties): The Social Yaks initiative promotes mental well-being via a card game designed to combat social isolation among adolescents and seniors.

3. Camaraderie Foundation, Inc. (Orange County): Support for military personnel and their families is offered through this program, which provides counseling and case management services to 200 participants.

4. Gentlemen's Quest of Tampa, Inc. (Hillsborough County): The Life Class program empowers students to develop essential life skills for future success, achieving a 100% graduation rate pursuing further education or vocational training.

5. Florida Center for Early Childhood, Inc. (Sarasota County): This program delivers trauma-informed care to over 200 families with young children at risk of long-term mental health challenges.

Expanding the Mental Health Workforce

In response to the shortage of mental health professionals, the Florida Blue Foundation is also focusing on increasing the pipeline of qualified practitioners. Notable initiatives include:

1. Agape Community Health Center (Duval County): This Mental Health Pipeline program aims to provide up to 500 internships for students and early-career professionals.

2. Children's Home Society of Florida – Orlando (Orange County): The ECHO program empowers the next generation of mental health professionals by providing hands-on experience and clinical practice opportunities.

3. Elizabeth H. Faulk Foundation, Inc. (Palm Beach County): This initiative is designed to train student clinicians, while also providing low-cost mental health services to economically disadvantaged communities.

Long-Term Goals and Impact

Susan Towler, executive director of Florida Blue Foundation, shares the vision of creating a lasting impact by supporting programs that cater to all ages, emphasizing the health of entire families and communities. Throughout the last six years, the Foundation has awarded 69 grants totaling $22 million in efforts to advance mental well-being initiatives.

As these programs progress, the Florida Blue Foundation remains committed to ensuring that every Floridian has the opportunity to thrive, irrespective of their background or circumstances. The foundation's long-term mission is to mitigate stresses impacting families, thereby fostering healthier communities across the state.

About Florida Blue Foundation

Founded in 2001, the Florida Blue Foundation is dedicated to enhancing community health through strategic investments and grants. It aims to address key issues such as food security and mental health, benefiting an average of 10 million Floridians annually. For more information about ongoing projects and initiatives, visit www.FloridaBlueFoundation.com.