CALIFORNIA
California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS)
Coming Soon: Activity Funds Initiative
PROGRAMS FOR
Children and Youth
Overview
Activity Funds can provide eligible children and youth enrolled in Medi-Cal, diagnosed with a behavioral health condition or at high risk of a behavioral health condition, and involved in Child Welfare with up to $1,000 per year to participate in activities. Activities can include camps, soccer, dance, music lessons, activity equipment and supplies and more!
Activity Funds are designed to help children and youth find a positive form of expression beyond traditional therapies. The use of Activity Funds will promote positive experiences in their lives, supporting inclusion in their community, a sense of safety, and increased autonomy to make decisions that will help improve their physical or behavioral health.
Contact your Licensed Mental Health Professional (LMHP) through the county to help you get started.
Participants can
Access $1,000 per year to participate in activities.
Select activity providers from the PPL directory or suggest providers they want to use.
Make requests for services and equipment to be purchased.
Use Better Online to track how much money is left to spend.
Services include
Enrollment support – We help you and your activity providers with enrollment and training through your enrollment specialist,
Customer service – Our friendly and professional customer service agents are available five days a week to help you with any questions.
Tax requirements – We handle all related taxes for selected activity providers.
Service reports – With our reports you’ll always have a clear picture of the services you’ve received.
BetterOnline™
Better Online is a web-based app that keeps you organized and gives you the tools and info you need to manage your activity funds. Check how much you spend each month and get answers when you need them. It’s easy to use and available from any internet-connected device.
Log in
View your budget, check the status of your activity provider, and search activity providers.
Contact Information
Customer Service Hours:
Monday – Friday:
8am – 5pm | PT
Customer Service / General Questions:
855-388-4089
Customer Service Email:
caactivityfunds-cs@pplfirst.com
More information:
DHCS Activity Funds Webpage