The Wellmark Foundation has announced a $5 million grant aimed at tackling the growing mental and behavioral health crisis among Iowa youth. The School-Centered Behavioral Health Grant will help rural school districts expand access to timely and convenient care.
Iowa’s youth continue to face mounting health challenges, a release stated. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 20% of high school students reported seriously considering suicide within the past five years, while 40% reported ongoing feelings of sadness. In 2023, suicide ranked as the second leading cause of death among Iowans ages 10 to 24.
Parents and caregivers often struggle to find support. Many rural families must travel long distances and wait months for an appointment—delays that can carry serious consequences during a crisis.
Wellmark Foundation leaders said schools are uniquely positioned to bridge these gaps.
“Schools are the heart of our rural communities. They experience the struggles our children face and are in a unique position to intervene early and effectively,” said Laura Jackson, executive vice president of health improvement at Wellmark and chair of The Wellmark Foundation, in the release. “This grant will enable better health outcomes for our kids, meeting them where they are, removing barriers to mental and behavioral health care access and supporting the critical role schools play in the development of Iowa youth.”
District leaders say the benefits are already clear.
“We have seen firsthand the significant impact that accessible behavioral and mental health care has on our students,” said Ashley Dirks, principal of Albert City-Truesdale Elementary School. “With the integration of telehealth services, our students can receive the support they need without missing much class time.”
“In rural areas, this is a service that is very much needed,” added Kim Ellrich, board secretary, Albert City-Truesdale Consolidated School District. “The flexibility is crucial for our families, ensuring that our students remain engaged in their education while also addressing their mental health needs. We are grateful and happy that we can offer this vital support to our families.”
The application period for the School-Centered Behavioral Health Grant opened May 1. Each district may receive one grant, and the Foundation will determine award amounts based on student enrollment and the scope of services requested. Applications will remain open until all funds are allocated.
“School-centered mental and behavioral health services can change the trajectory of a child’s life,” the release stated. “Addressing behavioral health challenges early has undeniable benefits that help students develop social and emotional skills that are important to live a long, healthy life. This grant aims to reduce barriers for rural Iowa youth and their families to access critical services.”
School districts can review eligibility requirements and apply at Wellmark.com/SchoolBehavioralHealthGrant.
