SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY — NOVEMBER 5, 2026. Supervisors approved acceptance of approximately $334,000 from the California Department of Public Health to develop a local prevention plan addressing suicide and overdose risks in fiscal year 2026–27.

What the funding is for

The Public Health Department will coordinate with Behavioral Health, Medi-Cal managed care organizations, local tribes, nonprofits, education partners, First 5 San Bernardino and the county Veterans Affairs office. The work includes integrating prevention priorities into the Community Health Assessment and Community Health Improvement Plan.

Why the county says action is needed

The official announcement notes that San Bernardino County fell in the second-highest quartile of California counties for reported suicidal ideation in 2025. This is a population-level indicator rather than a count of deaths, and it should not be used to characterize individual residents or neighborhoods.

What has not been announced

Grant approval does not establish a new hospital, guarantee treatment slots or mean a completed prevention plan is already in place. Future documents should specify measurable goals, outreach to rural communities and how agencies will coordinate services while protecting privacy.

Finding help now

People in the United States who need immediate crisis support can call or text 988. For an emergency requiring immediate on-scene assistance, call 911. County public health and behavioral health programs provide additional nonemergency resources.

Source: San Bernardino County Board Actions, November 5, 2026. The article reports planning funding and makes no claim about a change in overdose or suicide rates.

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