File photo.

Kaiser Permanente has announced $90,000 investment to support a public awareness campaign to reduce stigma around mental illness and encourage students in the Madera Unified School District and pregnant women to seek treatment if needed.

The grant is being awarded to Camarena Health—the largest health care provider in Madera County—and is expected to serve 2,500 high school students and 750 pregnant women accessing care in their health center.

“There are personal and social stigmas attached to accessing mental health services,” said Christine Howland, COO for Camarena. “This money will allow us to implement an awareness campaign and break down some of those stigmas and negative perceptions.”

A total of $2 million in community health grants were awarded to 25 Northern California organization including school districts, youth and family services and community coalitions.

The anti-stigma investment will support community organizations in developing training, public forums and awareness campaigns that are customized for specific populations. This is the first part of a three-year initiative.

“Kaiser Permanente has always been a great partner with us and very forward-thinking in how they invest resources in the community,” Howland said. “We know this money will make a difference in breaking down barriers when it comes accessing care and encouraging people to have an open discussion and dialogue around these important mental health issues.”