Healthy Petaluma awards $500,000 for youth wellness

In response to the continued difficulties that local adolescents confront in the post-COVID era, the Healthy Petaluma District and Foundation has awarded a grant of $500,000 to support the well-being of youth and young people in southern Sonoma County.

Announced last month, funded projects include everything from job development and mental health assistance to community-building activities and artistic endeavors.

According to a statement from Healthy Petaluma organizers, "the program's dual benefit of expanding youth mental health services while developing future therapists through their training program is particularly valuable given the current shortage of mental health providers."

The Petaluma River Park Foundation has been awarded with a $10,750 grant to promote collaboration with underrepresented kids and young adults, including providing leadership opportunities for event and project development at the park.