African American Faith-Based Education and Awareness

The goals of this initiative are to educate African American faith communities about mental health, wellness and recovery, and to build on the unique strengths of churches and other faith-based organizations in African American communities to identify and connect congregants with local behavioral resources for treatment and support. An additional goal is to support faith leaders in addressing their own mental wellness.

The Hogg Foundation funded 11 faith-based organizations in Texas to increase awareness and perceptions of mental health, recovery and wellness in African American communities.

First launched in 2014 with $947,000 in grants distributed over three years, in 2017, the foundation added an additional year of funding, totaling $350,000, with a new focus on addressing the mental health impacts of Hurricane Harvey and other disasters.

Current Grantees

Background

Although rates of mental illness in the African American community are comparable with those of the general population, the outcomes are less favorable. In times of emotional distress, evidence has shown African Americans draw support from their faith, family and communities. In fact, research shows that 85 percent of African Americans identify as being spiritual and report using their faith as a way to address their mental health needs.

Despite their importance in the lives of African Americans, faith leaders and the faith community in general are often challenged in recognizing and supporting individuals who seek help with mental health needs. Although most communities in Texas have mental health providers and other resources to support individuals with mental health conditions, there is often a disconnect between churches, mosques, faith-based institutions and mental health resources, especially in the African American community. Mental illness is often misunderstood, and many barriers exist that interfere with African Americans accessing much needed mental health services and supports.

This initiative will enable churches, mosques and faith-based organizations throughout Texas to begin addressing some of these barriers through education, dialogue and awareness. In addition, there will be opportunities for these entities to begin developing connections with the local mental health provider community to identify ways to better partner to meet the mental health needs of African Americans.

Questions: Contact Vicky Coffee, Program Manager

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