OCTOBER 2024
SSF NEWSLETTER
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Dive into the vital work of the Frontline Learning Collaborative; stay informed on upcoming CoC meetings, and HUD and DHCS trainings; and get the latest progress reports from the County, City, Sacramento Homeless Policy Council, and Coordinated Access System. Plus, connect with essential national and local resources that are making a difference. | |
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Once a month, on Thursday mornings, I host a gathering for my peers in the homeless response system—frontline staff dedicated to supporting those experiencing homelessness. These unique few hours allow us to connect and support one another, nurturing our professional needs and enhancing our capacity to serve those seeking services.
The Frontline Learning Collaborative was born out of frustration and confusion. Before Sacramento launched its Coordinated Access System (CAS) in October 2022, case managers and housing specialists often worked in isolation, defined by their organizations’ contracts. Many were unaware of available resources that could benefit their unhoused clients or found it difficult to access them due to agency agreements. The Coordinated Access System introduced a single access point for crisis services and housing support, improving information flow and service access for both clients and providers who assist them.
Founded in July 2023, the Frontline Learning Collaborative was created to address this need for connection and information. It has helped alleviate concerns about the changes introduced by the Coordinated Access System, while affirming the benefits of this collaborative approach. At our monthly gatherings, we feature a speaker who shares insights into their agency's services and often their personal journey into the homeless response system. We also dedicate time to sharing resources, exchanging information, and networking with one another. This collaboration not only helps us find solutions for our clients but also provides an invaluable support network in a field that can be emotionally and physically taxing.
With the launch of the Coordinated Access System, development of standards for the homeless response system, ongoing training, and the support of the Frontline Learning Collaborative, I believe our profession is poised to enhance Sacramento’s efforts to resolve and, ultimately, end homelessness.
If you serve in a frontline position, please join our email list for updates on meetings and other opportunities to connect and support one another.
With appreciation,
Theresa Bible
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HUD CoC Recipient Training
This training is a four-part series required for HUD Continuum of Care (CoC) fund recipients. Starting on Wednesday, October 9, the training will review the annual monitoring process, key updates, and responsibilities of organizations and their staff. Topics include program matches, invoices, participant eligibility, grievances, and more. Sessions are virtual and will be held weekly through October.
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DHCS Training on Enhanced Care Management Referrals
This webinar is designed for providers serving Medi-Cal members eligible for Enhanced Care Management (ECM) services. Hosted by the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), it will cover new policies aimed at making it easier for members to be referred to services. Be sure to register for this vital training session that will take place virtually on Wednesday, October 9.
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Early Education and Housing Webinar with SchoolHouse Connection
Join this critical training for educators and staff who support children up to five years of age experiencing homelessness. This event will be held on Tuesday, October 30. We strongly encourage liaisons and larger homeless services community providers to attend. Read training detail here and register from the button below.
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Continuum of Care October Meetings
The Sacramento Continuum of Care (CoC) leads our community's efforts to prevent and end homelessness. Discover more about the CoC and its committees by clicking the button below and by joining one or more of the upcoming public meetings. Information on date, time, format, and agenda of meetings is under the "Meeting Details" tab of each committee.
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UPDATES & PROGRESS POINTS | | |
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SHPC Q3 Meeting Report & Recording
The Sacramento Homeless Policy Council (SHPC) convenes key leaders to share and collaborate on strategies and actions addressing homelessness. Jurisdictions from across the county participate in these quarterly meetings to discuss plans and progress. Click below to read recent updates from the Q3 meeting, and watch a recording of the September session here.
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Coordinated Access System Supports
"After completing his intake appointment, he sent me a message expressing excitement that he finally had his own space. It was a great feeling to know that he finally had a safe place to sleep."
This reflection was shared by a Coordinated Access (CAS) navigator about one client they had the opportunity to serve. Read the July monthly report on Sacramento's CAS for more insight on the supports provided to those seeking services, including:
- 5,567 connections to resources
- 21 households prevented from homelessness
- 191 enrollments in shelter
- 130 households moved into housing
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County Clarifies Facts on Homeless Housing Plan
In mid-September, the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors approved $19.4 million for innovative projects to shelter and house people exiting homelessness from the American River Parkway. This funding, part of a $25 million state grant, will support affordable housing and expand shelter beds.
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City of Sacramento Report on first year of Incident Management
In August 2023, the City of Sacramento launched an Incident Management Team to respond to homelessness in Sacramento, focusing on outreach and compliance with laws and ordinances. At this one-year milestone, the City reports that the effort has resulted in:
- Response to more than 41,000 calls for service.
- More than 12,000 engagements with people experiencing homelessness to help connect them with services.
- The removal of approximately 10 million pounds of trash.
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RESOURCES & OPPORTUNITIES | | |
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National Poll on Opinions on Homelessness
The National Alliance to End Homelessness (NAEH) recently released results of its public opinion polling, providing insights on Americans' confidence in the ability to end homelessness, causes and solutions, and perspective on organizations working within the homeless response system.
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USICH Framework on Homelessness Prevention
The U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness has recently has released a plan that builds upon the "All In" federal framework for homelessness resolution, and a key reference for our local "All In Sacramento" campaign. Core elements of this framework are evident in our local "All In Sacramento" Regionally Coordinated Action Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness.
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Sacramento for All: Housing Education Resource Center
The City of Sacramento is holding community meetings on their strategies to provide adequate, affordable, and attainable housing for all community residents. In addition, the website is an educational resource on these issues. Find meeting dates and read more by clicking on the link below.
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Stay Healthy this Winter: Pop-up Vaccine Clinic Information
As the colder months approach, let’s come together to ensure we all stay warm and healthy. Help our community get vaccinated to fight off illness this fall. A shot can be a shield, helping protect those who need it most. Check out upcoming pop-up vaccination clinics!
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Funding Opportunities: Housing and Community Development Grants Calendar
The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) released its FY 2024–2025 Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) calendar, revealing over $4.8 billion in funding scheduled for release over the coming year. The calendar includes key release dates, deadlines, and award information for a variety of programs, including Proposition 1 and Behavioral Health Infrastructure Bond funds. Providers are encouraged to review the calendar as a resource to stay informed on upcoming opportunities. View the calendar for more details and program specifics.
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Stepping In: Volunteers Supporting our Community
Discover inspiring stories and opportunities to volunteer in our blog series, Stepping In: Volunteers Impacting Our Community. Fall into service alongside our local volunteers, advocates, and leaders within the Sacramento homeless response system.
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Current Job Openings at SSF
Sacramento Steps Forward currently has openings for the following positions:
If you or someone you know may be interested, please use the link below to share information, and/or apply.
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