October 18, 2025

D’Youville University Secures $1.2 Million Grant for Youth Mental Health Expansion in Buffalo

Buffalo, NY, October 18, 2025

D’Youville University has been awarded a $1.2 million federal grant aimed at expanding youth mental health services in Western New York. This funding will establish counseling centers in high schools and community facilities to support underserved teenagers facing mental health challenges like anxiety and trauma. The initiative also includes training for counselors and telehealth options to reach rural areas, addressing the growing demand for mental health support post-pandemic.

D’Youville University Secures $1.2 Million Grant for Youth Mental Health Expansion in Buffalo

Buffalo, NY – D’Youville University has received a $1.2 million federal grant to broaden youth mental health services across Western New York. The funding targets underserved teenagers by creating new counseling centers in high schools and community facilities. This effort addresses the escalating mental health challenges faced by young people in the region.

The initiative focuses on establishing dedicated counseling hubs that will provide accessible support for teens dealing with issues like anxiety and trauma. By integrating these services into schools and local centers, the program aims to reach those who might otherwise lack resources. The grant will fund the setup of these hubs, ensuring they operate effectively from the start.

Key components include training for 50 counselors over the next two years. This training, conducted in partnership with Buffalo Public Schools, emphasizes trauma-informed care approaches. Such methods help professionals respond sensitively to students’ experiences, fostering safer environments for healing and growth.

Telehealth Integration for Broader Reach

To extend services beyond urban Buffalo, the program incorporates telehealth options. These virtual sessions will connect with teens in rural surrounding areas, overcoming barriers like transportation and distance. Initial rollout prioritizes these digital tools to maximize immediate impact and ensure equitable access across Western New York.

The expansion builds directly on D’Youville University’s established nursing programs. Student interns from these programs will gain practical experience by participating in the counseling hubs. This hands-on involvement not only supports service delivery but also prepares future healthcare providers to handle mental health needs in community settings.

Addressing Post-Pandemic Mental Health Trends

The timing of this grant aligns with increased reports of youth anxiety following the pandemic. Data shows a surge in mental health concerns among teens, making targeted interventions essential. By focusing on prevention and early support, the initiative seeks to improve overall wellness and reduce long-term societal costs.

Community stakeholders have welcomed the development, viewing it as a vital step toward comprehensive student support. The program’s design promotes holistic education, linking mental health care with academic success. Planners expect these services to positively influence school attendance and student well-being metrics.

Implementation Timeline and Evaluation Plans

Launch events are scheduled for next month to introduce the new services to the community. These gatherings will educate families and educators on available resources and how to access them. The university plans to conduct regular evaluations to assess the program’s effectiveness, tracking outcomes like improved attendance rates and enhanced youth wellness indicators.

Overall, this federal investment underscores a commitment to tackling the youth mental health crisis at a local level. In Western New York, where resources have been stretched thin, the addition of specialized hubs and trained personnel promises meaningful change. D’Youville University’s role in coordinating these efforts highlights its dedication to community health integration.

The grant’s structure allows for scalable growth, with potential to adapt based on early feedback. Counselors will receive ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices in mental health support. This ensures the hubs remain responsive to evolving teen needs, from stress management to crisis intervention.

By embedding services within familiar environments like schools, the program reduces stigma around seeking help. Teens can engage in counseling without disrupting their routines, making participation more likely. Community centers will offer after-school sessions, providing flexible scheduling for families.

Partnerships with local schools extend beyond training to include collaborative policy development. This joint approach aims to create supportive frameworks that sustain mental health initiatives long-term. As the program unfolds, it will serve as a model for other regions facing similar youth challenges.

In summary, the $1.2 million grant empowers D’Youville University to lead a transformative effort in youth mental health. Through new hubs, trained experts, and innovative telehealth, Western New York teens gain critical support. Evaluations will guide future expansions, ensuring lasting benefits for underserved communities.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the $1.2 million federal grant to D’Youville University?

The grant aims to expand youth mental health services in Western New York by establishing new counseling hubs in local high schools and community centers, targeting underserved teens.

How many counselors will be trained through this initiative?

The program will train 50 counselors over two years, in partnership with Buffalo Public Schools, incorporating trauma-informed care models.

What role does telehealth play in the expansion?

Telehealth options will be included in the initial rollout to reach rural areas around Buffalo, ensuring broader access for teens.

How does this build on D’Youville University’s existing programs?

The initiative integrates student interns from the university’s nursing programs for hands-on experience in the new counseling hubs.

When will the new services begin?

Events are planned to kick off services next month, with evaluations to measure impact on school attendance and wellness.

Key Features of the Youth Mental Health Expansion

Feature	Description
Funding Amount	$1.2 million federal grant
Target Audience	Underserved teens in Western New York
New Facilities	Counseling hubs in high schools and community centers
Training Program	50 counselors trained over two years with trauma-informed care
Technology Integration	Telehealth options for rural access
Student Involvement	Interns from D’Youville nursing programs
Launch Timeline	Services kick off next month with impact evaluations