In 2021, a coalition of experts in pediatric health declared a national emergency in child and adolescent mental health. Rates of childhood mental health concerns and suicide have risen steadily since 2010, and by 2018 suicide was the second leading cause of death for youth ages 10-24.1
In 2020, Foundation staff were having conversations about this topic with a number of donors who were concerned about this issue, especially in light of the strains of the pandemic on school-aged children. The Pillar of Hope Fund was created to provide counseling and intervention services for low-income students attending Catholic schools in Santa Clara County. The fund has been granting since 2021 and has already made a significant impact on children, families, and teachers in underserved communities.
The therapist provided a safe and open environment for the girls in my daughter’s class to voice their concerns and work through their challenges.
– Local Catholic School Parent
The Pillar of Hope Fund utilizes the services of CASSY – Counseling & Support Services for Youth – to provide highly qualified postgraduate therapists to the campuses of 6 Diocesan elementary schools 1-3 days a week. Parents and staff alike are relieved to have resources available on campus so they don’t have to go to a second location.
$292,000
granted to Catholic Schools for counseling and intervention services 2021-2023
Pillar of Hope Fund – By the Numbers
Results from the 2022-2023 school year
97% of students and parents:
- Felt their needs were met
- Would recommend the services to a peer
- Made progress on at least 1 treatment goal
1004 parent engagement consultations
823 staff consultations
1416 individual student therapy sessions
Source: 1www.aap.org/en/advocacy/child-and-adolescent-healthy-mental-development/aap-aacap-cha-declaration-of-a-national-emergency-in-child-and-adolescent-mental-health