The Sutter County Children & Families Commission (SCCFC), in collaboration with Casa de Esperanza, is proud to announce that their community-led proposal has been awarded $2 million through the Commission for Behavioral Health’s 0–5/Maternal Behavioral Health Initiative.
Sutter County was one of only two small counties in California selected to receive this highly competitive funding. This initiative, funded through the Mental Health Wellness Act (MHWA), is aimed at improving behavioral health outcomes for birthing people and families with young children by reducing out-of-home placements, improving early educational outcomes, identifying developmental delays, and creating a stronger system of care during pregnancy and through early childhood.
“This is a transformative investment in the health and wellbeing of our youngest community members,” said Dr. Michele Blake, Executive Director of SCCFC. “This funding allows us to strengthen the entire ecosystem of care – from pregnancy through early childhood – by bringing systems and services together to work in harmony for families. It lays the groundwork for lasting impact.”
Due to eligibility requirements under the RFA, Casa de Esperanza served as the official lead applicant, with SCCFC providing grant writing, coordination, and strategic planning support. Community partners Family SOUP and Yuba-Sutter Playzeum are also key subcontractors, each bringing expertise in inclusive support services, parent engagement, and early developmental enrichment.
“We are honored to lead this important effort on behalf of families across Sutter County,” said Michelle Downing, Executive Director of Casa de Esperanza. “This collaboration represents the very best of what’s possible when nonprofits, systems leaders, and direct service providers come together with a shared vision.”
The grant requires funded organizations to demonstrate strong local partnerships, cross-sector collaboration, and a clear plan for long-term impact. Applied Survey Research (ASR) will conduct the project’s evaluation and ensure accountability, learning, and data-informed improvement throughout the grant period.
The program will begin with a six-month planning phase starting in summer 2025, followed by full implementation. This three-year grant will support services and systems improvements through 2028, creating long-term change for families with young children in Sutter County.
Official Notice of Intent
View the official Notice of Intent here: Notice of Intent to Award – April 24, 2025: I-R-003, 0-5/MBH-001/K-12-003
About SCCFC
The Sutter County Children & Families Commission supports the health, education, and wellbeing of children ages 0–5 and their families through strategic investments, partnerships, and advocacy.
About Casa de Esperanza
Dedicated to fostering a resilient and united community, Casa de Esperanza offers compassionate support and safe refuge to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, elder abuse, and human trafficking. Our mission is to empower individuals through crisis intervention, supportive services, comprehensive therapy services, and educational programs that promote healing, safety, and renewal within our community.
