A grant funding amounting to $1.6 million was given to four counties by the Center for Health Program Management and its funding partners Sierra Health Foundation, The California Endowment and The California Wellness Foundation. The grant was for the implementation of the Positive Youth Justice Initiative, a ground-breaking approach to reform juvenile justice. The latest proceeds brings to $4.5 million the amount invested in the program, a statement about the grant said.
The award was equally divided among the Alameda County Probation Department, San Diego County Probation Department, San Joaquin County Probation Department and Vallejo City Unified School District in Solano County that will be used to assess a series of reforms aimed at transforming the juvenile justice system to become more effective and just. The program, which will have a two-year testing period, also aims to improve the lives of California youths in the system. The test period will occur for a period of two years, the statement said.
The Center for Health Program Management works to lessen the health disparities in underserved communities through commitment, creativity and collaboration. The Sierra Health Foundation is a private philanthropy. Through convening, educating and strategic grantmaking, the group invests in and serves as a catalyst for ideas, partnerships and programs that enhance the health and quality of life in Northern California.
In 2012, the Sierra Health Foundation started the Positive Youth Justice Initiative to address the root issues that affect the youth in the system and thus change California's juvenile justice.
Sierra Health Foundation and the Center for Health Program Management President and Chief Executive Officer Chet P. Hewitt said in the statement, "The Positive Youth Justice Initiative was developed to ensure children in the juvenile justice system receive the support, guidance and structure they need to move beyond the trauma and neglect most experience prior to being engaged by the justice system. We are thrilled to be partnering with a group of innovative county leaders committed to leading the charge for juvenile justice reform in California. Their willingness to focus on the healthy development of system-engaged youth will enhance their individual prospects for a healthy, productive life while improving public safety for us all."
Join the Conversation