By SDCN Editor
Sacramento, CA–The California Department of Veterans Affairs has received a $300,000 grant through a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Suicide Mortality Review (SMR) Cooperative Agreement.
The grant enables CalVet to form a committee comprised of tribal representatives, mental health professionals, and community stakeholders to develop effective solutions in the form of suicide prevention services specifically tailored to the cultural and historical context of Native American communities.
The committee’s goal is to examine the unique challenges experienced by Native American veterans and to develop culturally informed policies, programs, and services that promote mental health awareness and suicide prevention within Native American communities across California.
“This grant enables CalVet to understand and integrate the cultural values, traditions, and practices of Native American communities, and create resources that resonate with and empower Native American veterans and their families,” said CalVet Secretary Lindsey Sin.
California is home to nearly 1.5 million veterans, with Native Americans comprising 10 percent of the state’s total veteran population. Research from state health agencies and CalVet indicates that veterans statewide, including Native Americans, experience disproportionately high rates of mental health challenges, including aspects that can lead to suicide.
The VA-funded SMR Project will be administered by CalVet’s Minority and Underrepresented Veterans Division. The committee that forms the working group will be guided by tribal consultation.
“This grant represents a significant step forward in addressing the unique mental health challenges faced by Native American veterans and it underscores CalVet’s commitment to fostering a healthy, supportive environment for those who have served. CalVet looks forward to building an effective SMR team and collaborating closely with Native American tribal representatives who know first-hand the underlying factors that impact the mental health of Native American veterans,” said Deputy Secretary Xochitl Rodriguez Murillo.
To learn more about CalVet programs and services for Native American veterans in California, visit here.
