Merced County plans new and continuing BHRS programs to launch July 1, 2026

Sharon outlined core programs the Integrated Plan will fund and the external partners named in the draft: La Familia, Turning Point, Aspiranet, CalLINKS, and an Individual Placement and Support partnership with the Human Services Agency (HSA). The plan also lists Strengthening Families (strengthening connections), Caring Kids, Sierra Vista, the SEA youth program through CSOC, a Latinx youth program, SECAP, and the Early Intervention Linkage and Engagement Program (formerly the middle school mentoring program). "Programs include older adult full-service partnerships through BHRS, and externally will include La Familia, Turning Point, and Aspiranet. CalLINKS, and individual placement and support with a partnership with HSA and will continue to have collaboration with outside organizations."

Sharon said the Integrated Plan is scheduled to be submitted by June 30, 2026 and that the programs will launch on July 1, 2026. Marilyn emphasized the importance of including public health in planning to clarify how prevention dollars will be used and noted barriers when private insurance prevents local access to BHRS-offered services.