(a) Purpose. This chapter implements Texas Government Code §531.09915, which authorizes the Health and Human Services Commission to implement a competitive matching grant program to support the initial establishment and operation of community-based initiatives that promote identification of mental health issues and improve access to early intervention and treatment for children and families.
(b) Grant objectives. The grants awarded under this chapter are intended to assist with the establishment or operation of community-based initiatives that may:
  (1) be evidence-based or otherwise demonstrate positive outcomes, including:
    (A) improved relationship skills;
    (B) improved self-esteem;
    (C) reduced involvement in the juvenile justice system;
    (D) participation in the relinquishment avoidance program under Texas Family Code Chapter 262, Subchapter E; and
    (E) avoidance of emergency room use; and
  (2) include:
    (A) training; and
    (B) services and supports for:
      (i) community-based initiatives;
      (ii) agencies that provide services to children and families;
      (iii) individuals who work with children or caregivers of children showing atypical social or emotional development or other challenging behaviors; and
      (iv) children in or at risk of placement in the foster care or juvenile justice system.

Source Note: The provisions of this §374.1 adopted to be effective November 1, 2023, 48 TexReg 6213