DATE:
November 4, 2025
12
TO:
Board of Supervisors
SUBJECT
Title
EXPLORING OPTIONS FOR ESTABLISHING A SAFETY NET BRIDGE PROGRAM TO ADDRESS ANTICIPATED GAPS IN SERVICES FOR RESIDENTS DISENROLLED FROM BENEFIT PROGRAMS (DISTRICTS: ALL)
Body
OVERVIEW
Shifts in federal policy, including the implementation of H.R. 1, have created new barriers for residents seeking access to social safety net services. Revised Medi-Cal and CalFresh eligibility requirements will put thousands of San Diego County residents at risk of losing vital services. To mitigate these gaps, the County of San Diego (County) should seek innovative strategies to provide continuity of essential services for vulnerable groups.
To address these challenges, the County must find a way to expand healthcare access for residents without health coverage, strengthen food access for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity, develop strategies to reconnect residents with vital benefits and provide ongoing support to maintain eligibility.
The County Live Well Centers are community hubs where residents can access health and social services in one convenient location. These facilities are uniquely positioned to meet the needs of individuals who have lost coverage or face barriers to accessing services. Leveraging Live Well Centers or other County infrastructure and resources as sites for expanded clinical partnerships, volunteer-driven services, and community food justice initiatives will allow the County to integrate health, food, and social services in an efficient and equitable manner.
RECOMMENDATION(S)
VICE CHAIR MONICA MONTGOMERY STEPPE
1. Direct the Chief Administrative Officer to:
a. Explore partnership opportunities between County-operated clinics at one or more of the County's Live Well Centers or other County locations and local Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) and/or Disproportionate Share Hospitals (DSH) to provide no-cost primary care medical services co-located ...
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