Mental Health Ministries (MHMs), especially at the parish level, require very little money to function. Most of what is recommended for training and resources is available for free or at very a low cost.
Additionally, many of the ministry events that MHMs often offer can be executed for little or no cost (ex. a Mental Health Awareness Mass, communal recitation of prayers related to mental health, or The Sanctuary Course for Catholics).
Mental Health Ministry at the diocesan level often requires additional funding to cover diocesan staff costs. Many dioceses assign part time mental health ministry related duties to a staff member already serving in the diocese’s offices, Catholic Charities, or Catholic Social Services.
Hospitality and printing are two minor budget needs that are often covered by the diocese or parish. If the diocese or parish is unable to cover these expenses, or if there are additional expenses that your budget cannot cover, your mental health ministry may be able to request funds from local Catholic organizations like the Knights of Columbus or private donors.
National grants to fund community-based initiatives to support mental health may also be available from organizations such as Jack and Jill, Lilly Pharmaceuticals, or SAMHSA among others.
For non-USA Mental Health Ministers, please note that this list of organizations may only provide grants and support to ministries operating locally in the United States. Those based outside the U.S. are encouraged to research local organizations in your country that may offer grants or funding to support your ministry.
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