Rite Aid Healthy Futures, the philanthropic arm of Rite Aid pharmacies, has announced a $1.25 million commitment to six leading youth mental health organizations. 

The funding will support efforts to protect racial and ethnic minorities and LGBTQ+ populations that experience higher rates of mental health challenges, often due to environmental factors beyond their control, systemic discrimination, and disproportionately elevated levels of stigma around mental health and seeking care. To that end, the grants include support for learning programs, peer groups, crisis hotlines, and clinical care. The recipients are Active Minds, the Trevor Project, the Steve Fund, the JED Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and Boston-based McLean Hospital.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in six youth in the United States experience a mental health condition each year, yet only half of them receive treatment. 

“Mental health represents a public health crisis and social justice issue for this generation. Our collective response will be a defining moment for our nation and our children,” said Rite Aid Healthy Futures executive director Matt DeCamara. “Connecting kids of all backgrounds with relevant mental health care resources is not just essential, it’s lifesaving. Working together we can ensure kids everywhere have healthier tomorrows.” 

(Photo credit: Getty Images/people images)