Sacramento, CA – Today, January 10th, 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled his proposed 2022-23 State Budget. Christine Stoner-Mertz, the CEO of The California Alliance of Child and Family Services, issued the following statement:

"The California Alliance of Child and Family Services (CA Alliance) applauds Governor Gavin Newsom’s and his Administration’s continued historic investments in community behavioral health. As an association that represents and advocates for community-based providers across California that serve children, youth, and families in the public human services system, we believe that for California to recover from these crises fully, all families need timely access to services and supports.   

Two years later, we are still dealing with the repercussions of a worldwide pandemic. COVID-19 has left lasting marks on our lives, especially children and youth. It has become normal for youth to experience increased anxiety, have reduced interactions with peers, struggle with distance learning, and watch as their families’ financial situation collapses. In addition, the recent U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on Youth Mental Health emphasizes that youth from communities of color and LGBTQ+ youth, are at greater risk of mental health challenges. This data, paired with our experience on the ground serving children and families, points to an urgent need to strengthen our infrastructure as a State so that all young people and families have timely access to vital supports. 

The CA Alliance is optimistic about Governor Newsom's proposed budget, especially with the recognition of community-based organizations vital role in addressing the persistent challenges facing youth and families. We are pleased to see the investment in workforce, and look forward to more detail on how this will positively impact community-based organizations and those they serve, particularly children and families served through child welfare and MediCal systems. In order to ensure that investments in children and youth are implemented effectively, a stable and sustainable workforce is critical.  

We look forward to working closely with the Governor's administration and the Legislature on the details of these investments to benefit all of California's children, youth, and families.”