Ballmer Group's $110 Million Donation Aims to Alleviate Mental Health Worker Shortage in Southern California
UCLA, Cal State L.A., and Cal State Dominguez Hills have received a substantial $110 million donation from the Ballmer Group, owned by Connie and Steve Ballmer, to enhance mental health programs. This funding is intended to address the significant shortage of mental health professionals in Southern California. The donation will be used to provide financial assistance and clinical resources to students pursuing careers in social work, youth counseling, and mental health services, particularly in underserved areas such as South and East Los Angeles. The initiative aims to train a new generation of counselors and social workers who are reflective of and understand the communities they serve. The California Department of Health Care Access and Information has identified a severe shortage of mental health professionals in 22 counties, with Los Angeles experiencing a 20% to 35% shortfall. 
