MHSA Cycle VI Request for Applications FYs 2023-24 through 2025-26

Funding Available for Regional Centers

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is pleased to announce the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) Cycle VI Request for Applications (RFA). The MHSA, approved by voters in November 2004, allocates funds to assist counties and state agencies in meeting all responsibilities of the MHSA. It is designed to expand and transform California’s behavioral health system to better serve individuals with, and at risk of, serious mental health issues, and their families. DDS has $2.2 million in funding to allocate over 3 fiscal years to award to regional centers to develop and implement innovative projects to support regional center consumers. The time frame for these projects is July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2026.

DDS will select projects that successfully integrate evidence-based models and techniques; incorporate performance-based approaches, interventions, and strategies; provide an ongoing, multi-disciplinary, collaborative process identifying local needs and overcoming system challenges at the local level; and include a mechanism to share information and resources statewide.

Projects must address the fundamental MHSA concepts, which shall be embedded and continuously addressed in both local and county level collaboration efforts. These concepts consist of the following:

community collaboration;
cultural sensitivity and competence;
consumer driven;
family driven;
wellness, recovery, and resilience focused; and
integrated service experiences for clients and their families.

Applications are due by Friday, March 17, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. and should be emailed to mhsacorrespondence@dds.ca.gov.

DDS Application Guidelines PDF
Addendum A Glossary WORD
Addendum B. Example WORD
Addendum C. Schedule WORD
Attachment A-1. Checklist WORD
Attachment A-2 . Cover Sheet WORD
Attachment A-3. Application Summary WORD
Attachment B. Project Info WORD
Attachment C Timeline WORD
Attachment D-2 Budget Narrative WORD
Attachment E Letters of Support WORD
Attachment F Assurances WORD
Budget Worksheet EXCEL

DDS will convene an RFA Information Session Webinar on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. This Webinar is being held to answer any questions prospective applicants may have concerning the application process. To register for the webinar, and/or receive answers to questions about the MHSA RFA, please email mhsacorrespondence@dds.ca.gov.

MHSA Project Blueprints provide a step-by-step guide on how regional centers have implemented MHSA Projects.