The Resiliency Institute for Childhood Adversity (RICA) at Loma Linda University Children's Hospital in California, United States, has secured $US1 million through the state's recently signed budget bill, AB 113, bolstering its efforts to provide services for children and youth who experience adverse life events.

Led by Amy Young, MD, Loma Linda University Children's Hospital chief of the Division of Forensic Pediatrics, RICA offers clinical support to children who experience abuse, homelessness, parental incarceration, and other traumatic situations. The services, however, extend beyond moments of crisis to include mental health support, educational advocacy, mentoring, scholarships, and pathways to workforce development.  

Anthony Hilliard, MD, FACC, president and chief executive officer of Loma Linda University Health, said those long-term efforts reflect a commitment to whole-person care. 

“The goal is to create the stability, support, and opportunity needed for a meaningful future,” Hilliard said. 

Loma Linda University Hospital representatives said financial support, like the budget allocation, is crucial to that effort.  

This is the second time state lawmakers have passed legislation designating funds for the institute, which California State Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh helped secure.  

“Through this investment, Dr. Amy Young and her dedicated team will be able to continue expanding innovative, trauma-informed programs that strengthen resilience and improve outcomes for children and families across the Inland Empire,” Hilliard said in a letter to Bogh. “We are grateful for your confidence in their work and for your partnership in advancing care that is bringing hope and healing to those who need it most.” 

The new funding will specifically support RICA’s educational advocacy program, which Loma Linda University Hospital formally integrated into its work earlier this year, called Loma Linda’s RICA Academy. 

Through the academy, students have access to mentorship, life skills development, and college- and career-readiness programs. Young said educational opportunities like these are key to helping those in RICA’s care become self-reliant adults. 

Young said being invited into the lives of children and families when they need someone the most is a privilege she never takes for granted.  

“Our hope is not just to help a child through a difficult moment, but to help change the trajectory of that child’s life,” Young said. “This $US1 million investment in RICA will allow us to do more of what we believe in, walking alongside young people, opening doors through education and mentorship, and helping them see a future that may not have felt possible before.” 

The original article was published on the Loma Linda University Health news site.