Request for Application (RFA) for 0-5/Maternal Behavioral Health Initiative (RFA 0-5/MBH-001)

The Request for Application (RFA) for the 0-5/Maternal Behavioral Health Initiative (RFA 0-5/MBH-001) seeks to distribute $18 million in funding under the Mental Health Wellness Act (MHWA). The primary goal of this initiative is to enhance behavioral health services for children ages 0-5 and maternal health by reducing out-of-home placements, improving educational outcomes, identifying developmental delays, and strengthening overall behavioral health support systems. This funding opportunity aims to build local partnerships and improve the system of care by engaging community-based organizations (CBOs) to lead initiatives and collaborations. The funding will be allocated across six grants, with two grants designated for small counties at $2,000,000 each, two grants for medium counties at $3,000,000 each, and two grants for large counties at $4,000,000 each. CBOs applying for this grant must establish and manage partnerships with other local organizations through subcontract agreements and/or Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs). These collaborations are crucial in ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated approach to addressing the behavioral health needs of young children and their families. Eligible applicants include community-based organizations that have the capacity to serve as the lead entity in coordinating partnerships and managing the implementation of services. The program requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to improve behavioral health outcomes, including early intervention and prevention efforts, through a well-structured service delivery model. The application timeline includes several key dates: the Bidder Conference will take place on February 12, 2025, providing an opportunity for applicants to clarify requirements. Written questions must be submitted by February 19, 2025, with responses being distributed on February 25, 2025. The final application submission deadline is March 28, 2025, by 12:00 PM. The Notice of Intent to Award is expected to be released on April 24, 2025. This funding is expected to be highly competitive, and applicants will be evaluated based on their ability to develop sustainable, impactful programs that enhance early childhood behavioral health outcomes. Evaluation criteria will likely focus on program effectiveness, partnership strategy, budget feasibility, and alignment with the MHWA goals. Interested applicants are encouraged to review the full RFA document and budget attachment to ensure compliance with all requirements and to develop a comprehensive proposal that meets the initiative’s objectives. Additional details and application materials are available for download on the CA.gov Behavioral Health Services Oversight & Accountability Commission website.