The Focus

August 12th, 2025

Announcements:

FOCUS OF THE MONTH

Substance Use Care Navigation

Substance use is a complex behavior that affects individuals and those around them in a variety of ways, including their personal safety and housing stability. However, it is important to recognize that not all instances of substance use rise to the level of SUD, or substance use disorder.


Determining when cases of substance use rise to the level of SUD requires clinical evaluation and diagnosis. There is no one-size-fits-all pathway to treatment and/or recovery.


ICMS can utilize CENS, or Client Engagement Navigation Services, to connect participants who are struggling with substance use to LA County's SUD System of Care. CENS offers targeted outreach and support to referred participants, helping them navigate the substance use care system. Additionally, they offer presentations to individuals, groups, and agencies regarding a variety of substance use topics.


To provide additional insights into how CENS can help ICMS participants, as well how the process works, we have put together a new Substance Use Care Navigation Tip Sheet.


What's Inside the new tip sheet?

This tip sheet has information to help ICMS navigate participant substance use effectively:

  • Helpful Definitions to Clarify Terminology Related to Substance Use
  • Details on the Relationship Between Harm Reduction, SUD Treatment, and Recovery
  • Description of the CENS Referral Process
  • Visual Overview of the Substance Use System of Care


You are doing amazing work! We hope this tip sheet helps you continue making a positive impact in participants' lives!

View the new tip sheet >

Let us know what you think! >

Training Resources:

Access HFH Trainings for ICMS

New FY 25-26 Program Guide for ICMS

The newest annual release is now available!

to the following agencies for over 50% of their active roster having current income information in CHAMP

  • Century Villages at Cabrillo
  • East Valley Community Health Center
  • Enki Health Services
  • Homeless Health Care Los Angeles
  • Illumination Foundation
  • Little Tokyo Service Center
  • New Directions
  • SSG HOPICS
  • St. Anne's
  • The Catalyst Foundation
  • The Salvation Army
  • US Vets
  • Upward Bound House
  • VIP Community Mental Health Center
  • Volunteers of America

Upcoming Office Hours

**please note, some dates may be subject to change due to holidays**

Bring all your CHAMP questions to one of our upcoming sessions. We welcome repeat visitors!

Tues @ 9:30AM & 1PM: August 19th, 26th

Intended as a safe space for all service providers to access guidance on solving problems and navigating cases.

Wed @ 11AM: August 13th, 20th, 27th

Hosted by Brilliant Corners Fridays at 10am. Covers how to access move-in and general assistance funds.

Fri @ 10AM: August 15th, 22nd, 29th

Available every other Wednesday from 10am - 11am. Provides overview of eligibility and referral process.

Every other Wed @ 10AM: August 20th

Available every 2nd Wednesday of the month. Provides support in submitting completed referrals.

Second Wed @ 11AM: August 13th

Available for ICMS agencies working with Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) & Family Unification Program (FUP) housing resources.


LACDA/HACLA FYI/FUP Programs:

Second Wed @ 11AM: August 13th


Small PHAs: Inglewood, Culver City, Pasadena:

Fourth Wed @ 11AM: August 27th

ICMS Snapshot Updates

No new updates at this time.

Previous Updates >

Featured Participants

AFFIRMATION OF THE MONTH

#MentalHealthAwareness

In my recovery, I build a life of purpose and connection, fueled by hope, respect, and the strength within me.

Plug in to Our Performance Improvement Ecosystem