EPA Funding Sources

The purpose of this program is to support States, political subdivisions within States, the District of Columbia, Territories, Native American Tribes and tribal organizations, in developing integrated home and community-based services and supports for children and youth with serious emotional disturbances and their families by encouraging the development and expansion of effective and enduring systems of care. A "system of care" is an organizational philosophy and framework that involves collaboration across agencies, families, and youth for the purpose of improving access and expanding the array of coordinated community-based, culturally and linguistically competent services and supports for children and youth with a serious emotional disturbance and their families. Research has demonstrated that systems of care have a positive effect on the structure, organization, and availability of services for children and youth with serious mental health needs. An estimated 4.5 to 6.3 million children and youth in the United States suffer from a serious emotional disturbance and approximately 65 percent to 80 percent of these children and youth do not receive the specialty mental health services and supports they need. Grantees will be expected to develop, implement, expand and disseminate broad, innovative system changes which improve outcomes for children, youth and families and create long-term positive transformation of services.

Community Action for a Renewed Environment (CARE) program. CARE is a community-based program that works with county and local governments, tribes, non-profit organizations and universities to help the public understand and reduce toxic risks from numerous sources, including those found in water. Since 2005, the grants have reached 68 communities in 34 states and territories. A recent evaluation by the National Association of Public Administration (NAPA) recognized the CARE program as a solid tested framework for engaging communities and other stakeholders.

Grants and partnerships provide the opportunities for EPA staff to access expertise and real world knowledge which can help answer the tough questions related to pesticide use and stewardship. Involvement in grants and partnerships with EPA also gives pesticide related professionals a unique opportunity to work with federal regulators and scientists in an environment of respect and collaboration.

The Grants Program sponsored by EPA's Environmental Education Division (EED), Office of Children's Health Protection and Environmental Education, supports environmental education projects that enhance the public's awareness, knowledge, and skills to help people make informed decisions that affect environmental quality.

The Environmental Justice Small Grants Program (EJSG), supports and empowers communities working on solutions to local environmental and public health issues. The Program assists recipients in building collaborative partnerships to help them understand and address environmental and public health issues in their communities.