Teen-founded mental health nonprofit distributes over 3,300 care packages across US

MH Boxes, a mental health-focused nonprofit, was established in January 2024 by Mila Henry, then 12 years old, with a mission to provide support and resources to Black girls facing psychological and emotional difficulties. The organisation emerged from Henry's recognition of the mental health challenges disproportionately affecting young women of colour and the persistent stigma surrounding mental health discussions within Black communities.

The initiative received initial funding through the #BlackGirlJoyChallenge, which awarded Henry a $550 grant to launch her vision. Using these resources, Henry began assembling care packages filled with essential self-care items designed to promote emotional wellness and provide tangible support to recipients.

Since its inception, MH Boxes has achieved significant reach, distributing over 3,300 care packages to recipients across the United States. The rapid expansion of the initiative reflects both the demand for mental health resources targeting Black girls and the effectiveness of Henry's grassroots approach to addressing a critical gap in support services.

The nonprofit's work aligns with broader efforts to destigmatise mental health conversations within Black communities and ensure that young people have access to practical tools and resources for managing their psychological wellbeing. Henry's initiative demonstrates how youth-led organisations can mobilise limited resources to create meaningful impact at scale.