Youth Resilience
Life in East Texas is rooted in connection – in families, faith, friends and community. As youth loneliness, anxiety and depression are on the rise across our community and the nation as a whole, these strong connections experience strain. The Health Foundation of East Texas is committed to addressing this challenge with unwavering resolve.
We believe youth wellness isn’t just about individual choices, but about individual circumstances, and we are committed to early intervention to protect it. With dedicated community partners and strategic investment, the Health Foundation of East Texas co-creates programs, initiatives and projects that ensure our youth are healthy in body and mind.
How we’re making a difference
Gifting Outside the Box
Some of the best gifts can’t be wrapped in a box. They’re experiences that engage a youth’s interests, strengthen connections to friends and community, and get them outside – which just happens to build a foundation for flourishing. At the Health Foundation of East Texas, we encourage parents, friends and loved ones to consider giving gifts that spark joy you can’t find on a shelf.
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Screen-light Summer
Summer brings the promise of more free, unstructured time — time for outdoor play, face-to-face friendships, creativity, and movement. These simple things strongly support youth well-being. We invite our community to help kids and teens make a little more room for them.
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Phone-free Schools
The Health Foundation of East Texas supports Texas’ phone-free schools policy as an important step toward youth resilience. Less screen time during the school day can mean greater focus, stronger connections, and better mental health.
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Smartphone Smart
We’re committed to creating a community where youth can thrive, and we believe digital wellness is essential to that vision. Our work is guided by thorough research and the unique needs of our local community.
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