State offers funds to help combat social isolation in kids

The California Department of Education is offering $2 million in grants to community organizations that partner with schools to provide programs that help students build healthy social connections.

The goal of the program is to offset the social isolation experienced by many students since the pandemic began. The program was funded in the 2021-22 California State Budget.

“During this extremely difficult time, many young people have found themselves disconnected from others,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. “There have been major spikes in levels of depression among California school students during the pandemic. Even as schools opened for in-person instruction in the 2021–22 school year, many students may still be experiencing some form of social isolation—especially because many students have been off campus for nearly two years.”

Funds from the program should be used to offer counseling, peer mediation or youth leadership programs and events, or to train students or staff.

The amount of each grant will depend on the scope of the application. The deadline to apply is Jan. 7. For more information, email EquityGrants@cde.ca.gov.