National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative - Community Treatment and Service Centers

The National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative - Community Treatment and Service Centers, managed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), is a forecasted federal funding opportunity designed to expand access to effective trauma-informed treatment and support services for children, adolescents, and their families. Administered under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, this initiative forms a key part of a national strategy to mitigate the long-term effects of childhood trauma through accessible community-based mental health services. This program seeks to bolster the national infrastructure for child trauma services by supporting the development and delivery of evidence-based, trauma-focused interventions. Through the establishment and enhancement of community treatment and service centers, SAMHSA aims to ensure children and youth who have experienced trauma—including abuse, neglect, violence, or disasters—can receive timely, culturally appropriate care. The funding supports organizations in delivering direct services, increasing trauma-related clinical expertise, and improving organizational practices through training and capacity building. Awardees under this initiative will be responsible for providing trauma-focused assessment, evidence-informed treatment, outreach, and case management. The program emphasizes engagement with underserved communities and integration with broader child-serving systems such as schools, juvenile justice, and child welfare. The aim is to establish or strengthen a local network of trauma services that reflects best practices in trauma-informed care and fosters resilience and recovery among young people. Although the forecast does not yet include specifics on application components or evaluation criteria, it indicates that eligible applicants are domestic public and private nonprofit entities. This broad eligibility includes a wide range of community organizations, educational institutions, and nonprofit providers with a mission to serve children and families. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement, increasing accessibility for smaller organizations or those operating with limited financial reserves. According to the forecast, the estimated total funding available is $40.2 million, with approximately 67 awards expected. Specific award ceilings and floors have not been disclosed yet. The program is classified under Assistance Listing 93.243, supporting projects of regional and national significance in the area of substance abuse and mental health services. Applications are expected to open around February 27, 2026, with further timeline details, including award or project start dates, to be announced. The opportunity status is currently listed as forecasted, and it is likely part of an annual cycle. Prospective applicants are encouraged to monitor updates through Grants.gov and the SAMHSA website. The main point of contact for this opportunity is Elisabeth McCall Martin, who can be reached at (240) 276-2252 or via email at [email protected] for additional details or clarification.