Behavioral Health & Recovery Services Blog

We are proud to announce that The County of San Mateo has been recognized as a Certified Welcoming place by Welcoming America, becoming the first county in California to achieve the distinction for its commitment to immigrant inclusion and belonging.

The County achieved Welcoming America’s 4-star Certified Welcoming designation, the only county in the nation to achieve the rating, and one of only 21 cities and counties in the United States. The program assesses local governments against the Welcoming Standard on their efforts to include and welcome immigrants in all areas of civic, social and economic life.

“We have always known that San Mateo County is special. That we recognize, embrace and celebrate our diversity – it contributes to the vibrancy and resilience of our community where everyone feels valued, respected and able to thrive. Now we are being recognized nationally for this spirit,” said Warren Slocum, president of the Board of Supervisors.

This honor is the culmination of significant efforts since 2020 with major contributions by BHRS through the Office of Diversity & Equity for such programs as the Parent Project and the Health Ambassador Program (HAP), that have provided opportunities for the immigrant community to learn about and support BHRS while lifting up the behavioral health needs of their family members and loved ones.

Slocum and County leaders gathered Wednesday to formally receive the certification from Welcoming America and thank the nearly 100 partners countywide who participated in the certification process.  

Among the factors Welcoming America considered in awarding the county four stars are:

• Efforts to improve standards of living and alleviate poverty by addressing equity within transportation, childcare and housing. In particular, Welcoming America cited opportunities for homeownership in the Harbor Trailer Park. 
• Civic engagement programs, including the Community Alliance to Revitalize Our Neighborhoods (CARON) through the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office and the Farmworker Advisory Commission, which create opportunities for  communication between residents and their government. 
• Data collection efforts to help local governments and community organizations make better informed decisions.

At Wednesday’s gathering, the County also unveiled its new immigrant inclusion strategic plan. Speakers at the event celebrated the work done so far but also looked to the future, noting that the strategic plan will serve as a blueprint for the community.

“As we celebrate this honor, we recognize that the work of welcoming is never finished and we look forward to continuing to find new ways to empower and support immigrant community members and all who call San Mateo County home,” said County Executive Mike Callagy. “We are a welcoming space, regardless of a formal recognition, but are so proud to be acknowledged on a national scale.”

Welcoming America is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that that leads a movement of inclusive communities becoming more prosperous by ensuring everyone belongs. Certified Welcoming is a formal designation by Welcoming America for cities and counties that have created policies and programs reflecting their commitment to immigrant inclusion.

Please see the latest issue of the Director’s Newsletter from BHRS Director, Dr. Jei Africa. 

Topics include: 

• Behavioral Health Bridge Housing Grant
• Mental Health Services Act Impact on Housing
• Housing Programs Spotlight: Healthcare for the Homeless (HCH) and Homeless Engagement Assessment and Linkage (HEAL)
• Diary in the Field: IMAT Expands Outreach to Navigation Center
• Healthcare for the Homeless/Farmworker Team: Needs Assessment Provides Insights for Practitioners to Consider

Past issues can be found here.

The California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) has launched new digital mental health support for youth, young adults and families. The two easy-to-use web-and app-based platforms, BrightLife Kids and Soluna, offer free, safe and confidential support for those living in California. No insurance is required.  

BrightLife Kids offers behavioral health coaching for parents, caregivers and kids 0-12 with customized support varying for each age group. Dedicated coaches communicate directly with you and your child to provide expert behavioral health guidance and on-demand resources anytime and from anywhere. Parents and caregivers can use BrightLife Kids for peer support and expert advice on how to handle behavioral challenges while teaching problem-solving and communication. Kids can utilize resources and coaching that teach them how to manage worries, express big feelings and navigate confusing social situations.  

13–25-year-olds can access Soluna to chat 1:1 with a professional coach, use interactive tools to destress, explore quizzes or videos and participate in safe, moderated community forums. The app offers support wherever you may be in your journey and is designed to be a space where you can be authentically you. A smart phone is not necessary to receive support. Soluna offers over-the-phone coaching in 19 languages that can be accessed at their website. Additionally, the Soluna app or website can help users search for local services.  

BrightLife Kids is available for download on IOS devices in the Apple App Store and will be available for Android devices in mid-2024; it is also available online at CalHOPE. Soluna is available for both IOS and Android devices in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you are in crisis and looking for urgent support, call 988 or the San Mateo County Crisis Line at 1-650-579-0350 or Text “BAY” to 741741.