University of the Pacific’s School of Health Sciences has received a $2.4 million federal grant to expand the behavioral health workforce and improve access to care in underserved communities. 

The funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration will support students in Pacific’s Master of Social Work program and Doctor of Occupational Therapy programs who are committed to working in high-need areas. Students will gain specialized training and hands-on experiences to meet the mental health needs of youth, particularly in K-12 schools. 

More than half of the Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training grant—$1.25 million—will go directly to students. Each year for four years, six students in the social work program will receive $25,000 stipends, and five students in the occupational therapy program will receive $32,500 stipends. 

The funds are intended to support students who have overcome educational disadvantages and plan to work in the Central Valley, which has some of the most underserved populations in the country. According to the California School Dashboard, between 20-43% of racially minoritized youth in San Joaquin County experience social and emotional distress. 

“There is a critical shortage of behavioral health professionals in our region, especially those trained to work with children and adolescents,” said Amanda West, chair and program director for social work. “This grant allows us to prepare more students who reflect the communities they will serve and are committed to addressing mental health disparities in our most vulnerable populations.” 

Occupational therapists also play a critical role in behavioral health by addressing the everyday routines, environments and social needs that impact a person’s well-being.

“This grant is an incredible opportunity to expand access to behavioral health care for youth in our schools and communities,” said Natalie Perkins, chair and program director for occupational therapy. “It not only helps break down barriers to accessing mental health, but it also supports our students—future occupational therapists—who are committed to providing compassionate, community-centered care.” 

Rep. Josh Harder, who represents California’s 9th congressional district, wrote a letter in support of Pacific receiving the grant. 

"Mental health touches every family in the Valley, and for too long our community hasn't had the resources it needs," Harder said. "University of the Pacific has been a critical partner in filling that gap, and this investment is a crucial step towards delivering the behavioral health services we deserve, especially for our students and kids."

The School of Health Sciences has secured more than $17.5 million in state and federal grants since 2022 to support students and grow the behavioral health and health care workforce. Other recent grants include a $4 million grant awarded in 2024 and a $6 million state grant in 2023. 

“We are extremely grateful for this support,” said Nicoleta Bugnariu, dean of the School of Health Sciences. “This funding directly advances our mission to expand health care access to those who need it most and prepare students from the region to make a lasting difference in their communities.” 

The social work and occupational therapy programs, which are located on Pacific’s Sacramento Campus, are currently accepting applications.

The social work program is offered in both fully online and hybrid formats and is open to students without a bachelor’s degree in social work. Occupational therapy is a 32-month program with new cohorts starting in January.

This project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as part of an award totaling $2,400,000 with 0% financed with non-governmental sources. The contents are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government.