Federal Grant Cancellations Impact School Mental Health Services in North Carolina

August 7, 2025 - 05:30

The sudden cancellation of federal grants will halt planned — and much needed — expansions of school-based mental health services in North Carolina. This decision, stemming from the Trump administration's recent policy changes, affects four key programs across the state that were designed to enhance mental health support for students.

These grants were intended to provide critical resources for schools to address the growing mental health crisis among children and adolescents. With increasing rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues among students, the funding was seen as a vital lifeline for schools striving to create a supportive environment.

The cancellation has left school administrators and mental health advocates concerned about the implications for students' well-being. Many fear that without these resources, schools will struggle to provide adequate support, potentially exacerbating existing mental health challenges. The decision has sparked discussions about the importance of funding for mental health initiatives in educational settings and the need for continued advocacy to ensure that students receive the help they need.