Our staff are incredible. Their passion, commitment and ability to adapt during this challenging time is apparent and making a difference in the lives of those we serve.
Let’s be clear, our staff are not just moving lives forward, they’re saving lives!
In less than a month’s time, San Fernando Valley Community Mental Health Center has achieved the herculean task of converting its operations with 450+ employees and 49 programs serving approximately 15,000 people each year into a mostly remote operation.
Our services are essential during this COVID-19 crisis. We provide a critical safety net to thousands of those most vulnerable in our community – people who suffer from serious anxiety, mental health and substance use disorders, chronically homeless, individuals who have been involved in the justice system, victims of domestic violence or other traumas and so much more.
I'd like to share with you some of the great work and successes we’re seeing during this time.
- Older Adult Services going the extra mile. The Center offers several programs that focus on the specific needs of older adults who have anxiety disorders and other mental health and physical health issues. These individuals are in the high risk category for COVID-19. Clinicians are doing whatever it takes to provide extra support now. Some clinicians have been making trips to Costco, purchasing groceries and leaving them on the doorstep of those clients at highest risk.
- Homeless Services getting clients into housing. The Center has a full range of services that work with the homeless and those at risk of homelessness. The programs work independently and collaboratively so their clients can not only obtain housing, but also maintain housing. Services are tailored to meet the needs of each client based on their level of functioning. In the last couple of weeks, four clients have been able to move into their own apartments! It takes a village. Thanks to the efforts of our many staff who assisted in this process – Homeless Access Center staff providing basic needs, therapists, case managers, housing navigators, nurses and services including: money management, medication management, food assistance, substance use counseling and more.
- Domestic Violence Prevention & Treatment Program keeping its clients safe. This is a precarious time for all, but especially for those who may be in situations of domestic violence. Through tele-services, staff with the program continue to help clients access clinical services, case management and psycho-social education so they can get through this time safely. The staff are helping clients in need get Emergency Protective Orders through local police stations and orders are being extended until the courts reopen. All of the clients and their children are living in less than ideal situations now – some are staying with extended family, some share apartments with other survivors after being evicted from a batterer’s home, others are placed in domestic violence shelters. The program is exploring a Domestic Violence Survivor Support group through videoconferencing and teleconferencing though many clients have technological and living space limitations. Despite all of these challenges, the compassion and commitment of the Center’s staff is unwavering. If you know anyone who is experiencing domestic violence, please refer them to the LA County DV Hotline at (800) 978-3600.
- Diverting individuals from the justice system. The Diversion 50 program offers services to individuals who have a mental illness, are chronically homeless and have been diverted from the justice system. One client who started with the program in February has struggled with mental health, substance use, homelessness, and incarceration for many years. During this time, he has been attending ZOOM AA meetings, is actively participating in tele-therapy sessions, speaks with his case manager daily and is medication compliant. The program staff have been working hard to find new and innovative ways to stay connected with their clients.
These are just a few ways our staff have stepped up to help. We're so grateful to each and every one of our staff for their ability to make a difference during such challenging times.
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Thank you for your continued support of our Center!
