ERF-2-R,_Application_Submission-CountyTuolumne_6_2023.pdf

SUBMISSION PORTAL OVERVIEW

Is the Application a "Test" Submission?

No, this is my official Submission.

Part 1: ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Application Window This application is being submitted in the following application window:

Window #3, 5/1/2023 - 6/30/2023

Eligible Applicant Select the eligible applicant's jurisdiction type.

County

What is the name of the city or county?

Tuolumne

Implementing Organization Implementing Organization County Administrator's Office

Specific Unit or Office Within the Implementing Organization Tuolumne County Homeless Services

Implementing Organization's Address 2 S. Green Street

City Sonora

Zip Code 95370

County Tuolumne

Implementing Organization's Tax ID Number 946000547

Project Director Name Michael Roberson

Title Homeless Services Coordinator

Phone

(209) 533-5533

Email mroberson@co.tuolumne.ca.us

Grant Administrator

Michael Roberson

Title Homeless Services Coordinator

Phone Email

(209) 533-5533 mroberson@co.tuolumne.ca.us

Contact Person for Application Name Michael Roberson

Title Homeless Services Coordinator

Phone

(209) 533-5533

Authorized Representative

Tracie Riggs

Title Tuolumne County Administrator

This Application uses character limits

Reaching these limits is not required. Competitive responses may fall well short of these limits.

Part 2: PROPOSAL OVERVIEW People Served Number of people currently residing in prioritized encampment site

Of people currently residing in prioritized encampment site, how many will be served by this proposal?

Given the potential for inflow of people into the prioritized encampment site, how many people are projected to be served across the entire grant period?

Of people projected to be served across the entire grant period, number of people projected to transition into interim shelters

Of people projected to be served across the entire grant period, number of people projected to transition into permanent housing

Is the prioritized encampment site part of a larger encampment area?

Yes

Approximately how many people are residing in the entire larger encampment area, including the prioritized site?

Briefly describe the prioritized site in relation to the larger encampment area. (1000 character limit) The Caltrans resolved sites are described in the uploaded After Action Reports. Some of these sites have been repopulated and several other sites have been established (see more information below).Sonora Library/Sonora Elementary/Department of Motor Vehicles 480 Greenley Road/Child Road, Sonora, Tuolumne County: Since the closure of the various encampments in Tuolumne County a new encampment formed in a very sensitive location in Tuolumne County. About 12 homeless living in cars have parked in the Sonora Public Library parking lot. About 10 others have moved to the forested area behind the library which is also adjacent to Sonora Elementary and the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Encampment activities in these areas are a threat to public health and safety, have become a public nuisance because of litter and large debris piles, and lack of proper sanitation. Homeless have been “day-camping” in the library. Onsite camping impedes use of the library and adjacent Senior Center.

Encampment Information

1. Briefly describe the characteristics of the people residing within the prioritized encampment site.

The description must include demographics and may include household compositions, disabilities, and projected service and housing needs. (1500 character limit) According to information from Tuolumne County Health & Human Services Agency (HHSA) as well as outreach workers from community-based service providers, 34 individuals have been affected by Caltrans’ encampment resolution efforts in Tuolumne County in 2022. These resolution efforts include SR108/Wigwam Road, SR-49 Woods Creek, SR- 49/Stockton Road, SR-108 Woods Creek and SR-108 Lowes. These individuals have scattered to other sites across the County that includes Caltrans property in the Phoenix Lake Road/Bergel Road area and repopulation of the previously resolved Caltrans sites.

These sites are near town-center and are close to many services, so the probability of repopulation as a cycle, is high. These sites have an adverse effect on the environment and negatively impact local waterways, wildlife, and community health and safety. Of the 34 displaced ,11 are seniors, 4 on probation, 3 on parole, 1 is a mother of a child under 18, 1 a veteran, 1 a retired nurse, 1 is 85 years old and 24 are ages 18-65 reflecting diversity backgrounds, ethnicities and abilities. The Caltrans After-Action Reports on Caltrans encampments resolution efforts in Tuolumne County during 2022 state that 25 homeless were affected. It is supposed that the discrepancy in numbers between County & Caltrans is primarily due to the transient nature of the homeless population. “Word-on-the-street” prior to resolution efforts resulted in camper migration and the establishment of new scattered sites.

2. Briefly describe physical characteristics of the prioritized encampment site in which the people you are proposing to serve are residing. The description must include the specific location, physical size of the area, the types of structures people are residing in at the site, whether vehicles are present, and any other relevant or notable physical characteristics of the site. (1000 character limit) Many of the encampments that were closed by Caltrans have been repopulated onsite or on adjacent property. Encampment locations and descriptions are on the attached Caltrans After-Reports. The new encampments are described below with more information on the attached PDF’s: Woods Creek behind Motherlode Motors located at 13411 Mono Way with15-20 campers living in tents, vehicles and constructed habitations. Sonora Library/Sonora Elementary/Department of Motor Vehicles 480 Greenley Road/Child Road with 12 homeless living in cars and about 10 others have moved in the forested area behind the library which is also adjacent to Sonora Elementary and the DMV. Phoenix Lake Road/Bergel Road corridor on both Caltrans and County property which is further west on Woods Creek than the past Caltrans work with 10 campers in tents and cars. Encampment activities in these areas are a threat to public health and safety, increase fire risk, create a public nuisance with litter & large debris piles.

3. Why is this particular encampment site being prioritized? (1000 character limit) In coordination with Caltrans’s abatement efforts in the summer of 2022, the City of Sonora enacted ordinances that effectively moved campers from City parks and other City-controlled public spaces to places out of town-center where new encampments were established. Without increased housing capacity this will be the pattern of all encampment closure initiatives. These particular encampments and those in approximate areas are very visible, a threat to the safety of nearby housing subdivisions because of risk of catastrophic fires being ignited by campers, and detrimental to the health of campers and Tuolumne County citizens because of the lack of proper sanitation and waste management. It is a widespread criticism by community-based service providers and members of the community at large that Caltrans resolution efforts in Tuolumne County effectively shifted the problem to local jurisdictions without offering support for long-term solutions.

Attachment: Map Wigwam Report With Maps.pdf

W Stockton Road Report With Map.pdf

Sullivan Creek With Maps.pdf

49 Mil Villa Report With Map.pdf

108 49 Report With Map.pdf

Sullivan Creek.pdf

Bergel Road.pdf

Sonora Library & Child Road .pdf

4. Is the prioritized site on a state right-of-way?

Yes - partially

Attachment: Caltrans Letter of Support Caltrans Letter of Support Tuolumne ERF.pdf

Proposal’s Outcomes

5. What are the outcomes this proposal seeks to accomplish by the grant close (6/30/2026)? If funded, what are the primary activities you are planning to implement to achieve the proposal’s outcomes? (1000 character limit) ERF monies, if awarded, would be combined with other funding sources to support the following outcomes:

rapid-rehousing and prevention money in partnership with Amador Tuolumne Community Action Agency;

safe-parking site in partnership with Compassion Outreach; case management and housing navigation services through Tuolumne County Health & Human Services Agency; increase in transitional housing through the acquisition of 3 three-bedroom homes to be used in house-share agreements; the purchase and conversion of a local hotel to provide permanent housing for up to 30 people supported by Tuolumne County Homeless Services; and pet services. The required HHAP-3 Local Homelessness Action Plan articulates the goal of reducing the number of persons experiencing homelessness on a daily basis by 69 from a baseline of 687 as well as increasing the number of people exiting homelessness into permanent housing by 36 from a baseline of 358, both before 6/30/24. ERF would support these outcomes.

6. How will the applicant measure progress towards the proposal’s outcomes? (1000 character limit) Progress will be measured through HMIS data, the number of people engaging in person-centered planning and housing services, the number of participants in the safe parking site, an increase in emergency interim, transitional and permanent housing capacity and participation, and a decrease of those who return to homelessness during the period of this grant cycle.

7. Are there any local ordinances, resources, or other factors that may hinder achieving the proposal’s outcomes? If so, how will the applicant navigate these challenges? (1000 character limit) There are no known obstacles. Community Development Department, Capital Projects, County Counsel, HHSA and Homeless Services are working collaboratively to assure compliance with codes, ordinances, laws and allowable uses of funding including the newer state-wide emergency housing ordinance appendices. Collaboration with Amador Tuolumne Community Action Agency (ATCAA) for housing and housing management programs is a consistent part of mutual efforts to address/reduce homelessness as well as manage shared housing programs. Housing First principles are a priority with all housing programs.

Behavioral Health operates two supportive housing projects for clients on their caseload with successful outcomes. County staff participates with law enforcement in an outreach initiative called HOST (Homeless Outreach Support Team) that seeks to connect homeless to housing navigation services. The County is committed to housing and not displacement as evidenced by Board actions and priorities.

8. Is this proposal a standalone project or part of a larger initiative?

Larger initiative

8. a) How would this larger initiative be categorized?

Part of a larger initiative

Please describe. (1000 character limit) The Tuolumne County Homeless Services system of care was recently developed with the assistance of Change Well in collaboration with HHSA staff to create a flow of services that moves the unhoused to permanent housing with person-centered supportive services. It is consistent with the HHAP-3 Local Area Plan to Combat Homelessness, the Central Sierra Continuum of Care LHAP, the Tuolumne County Plan to Combat Homelessness and the local Housing Element. All of these have been developed with input form those with lived experience.

Part 3: IMPLEMENTATION Core Service Delivery and Housing Strategies

9. Describe the proposed outreach and engagement strategy, case management, and / or service coordination for people while they are continuing to reside within the encampment site. Quantify units of service to be delivered including the ratio of staff to people served, frequency of engagement, and length of service periods. (2000 character limit) HHSA partners with community-based service providers (law enforcement, schools, hospitals, non-profit organizations) in the development of outreach and case management strategies that align with the needs of the residents and include person-centered, trauma-informed wrap around services. This approach is multi-disciplinary. Referrals come to HHSA through these partners and are assessed for benefits eligibility and resources. Outreach to homeless individuals and encampments takes place one day a week by County Social Workers and community partners. Case workers seek to build trusting relationships with those in the encampments and aid in the development of a person-centered care plan as well as efforts to achieve the care plan goals. These supports include acquiring necessary identification, social security cards, submitting application for various services, health and medical supports, life skills and job training, behavioral health and addiction disorder referrals as well as making connection with family and friends.

Housing options through the County and its partnerships are explored and offered when relevant. Service ratios vary based on service needs and partnership collaborations. Currently, the social worker caseload is limited to 20 clients, other supports are offered through community-based organizations and service providers. Case workers attempt to have a minimum of two touch points per week with each client and intend to support clients as long as clients are engaged on a pathway to permanent housing, past the close of the ERF grant cycle if needed. County staff are consummate professionals and employ best practices.

Recent trainings include Working with Complex Trauma, Trauma Informed Care, Core Competency of Trauma, Trauma Defined Training, Criminal Justice Trauma, Integrated Core Practice Model, De-escalation, Trust Based Relational Intervention, Motivational Interviewing, Human Trafficking, and Sexual Exploitation Identification.

10. Describe the role of Coordinated Entry in the context of this proposal and how Coordinated Entry policies or processes will support and / or hinder the implementation of this proposal. (1000 character limit) In collaboration with the Central Sierra Continuum of Care and their contracted administrative entity, Amador Tuolumne Community Action Agency, Tuolumne County utilizes our area Coordinated Entry System to support efforts to provide services for families and individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The four core components (access, assessment, prioritization, and referral) are implemented as a part of entry into the Homeless Services System of Care and flow of services. This process will help to identify those in our community who have the most vulnerabilities and needs and better inform the process of presenting housing options to the consumer.

11. Please describe the interim shelter and permanent housing opportunities proposed to support this proposal and provide evidence of the applicant's demonstrated ability and commitment to deliver permanent housing for people residing in the prioritized encampment. (2000 character limit) In 2022, Social Services successfully placed 100 individuals into permanent housing. Funding from this grant would help to provide the following: 1.Tuolumne County partners with Amador Tuolumne Community Action Agency for homelessness prevention, rapid rehousing, utility supplements, emergency housing and housing navigation. Their services during encampment resolution is integral to providing immediate housing for those being displaced. Recently, ATCAA lost significant funding because of changes in the Emergency Services Grant. Tuolumne County is seeking funding as a part of this grant request to restore their operating capital and ensure their vital role in housing placement for on-going and future encampment resolution efforts. ATCAA has been a longstanding housing resource in our region operating several emergency shelters and permanent housing programs. Tuolumne County has several contracts with

ATCAA for various housing services 2.Tuolumne County recently purchased a former memory care facility with 25 double rooms several common areas, and two commercial kitchens for use as emergency interim housing-a very important first step in the development of a system of care and a provision for emergency interim housing. What lacks in the system for those displaced by encampment resolutions is transitional and permanent housing. 3. Distributive housing for shared housing is an initiative that Tuolumne County already employs for Behavioral Health clients and has done so successfully for 13 years. Tuolumne County seeks to acquire 10 homes in the next 2 years to be used for transitional housing. The acquisition of 3 homes is a part of this grant request. These homes could potentially house up to a total of 24 individuals and significantly increase service-based housing capacity. 4. Tuolumne County is in negotiations for the purchase of a small 15 room hotel that will be converted to apartments. All of these programs will provide safe, secure and dignified housing.

12. Describe how this proposal is tailored to meet the needs and preferences of people residing within the prioritized encampment. (1500 character limit) Definitive data is hard to collect. Our most recent Point in Time count identified 266 homeless including 98 chronically homeless individuals. Cal SAWS data identifies 741 in Tuolumne County who indicate they are homeless including 71 transitional age youth, seniors, veterans, families, parolees and people on probation. Seeking the input from this community is challenging and requires a multi-facet approach.

Through one-on-one meetings, participation in advisory committees, participation in public meetings, engagement with service providers and County staff, those with lived experience (from both the community at large and those displaced by resolution activity) have contributed to the formation of the homeless housing strategies that are being implemented in Tuolumne County.

Table 1: Projected Living Situations Immediately Following the Encampment Briefly Describe Each Projected Living Situation Immediately Following the Encampment

Is This Permanent Housing?

Quantify The Capacity (e.g., number of beds/units, frequency of bed/unit availability)

Prioritized or Set- Aside for ERF-2-R?

Is this living situation funded by ERF-2-R and / or Leveraged Funds?

% of Served Persons Projected to Fall Within This Living Situation

Hotel Vouchers No 40 rooms for up to 60 Days

Prioritized ERF 75

Housing Vouchers/Rent Subsidy

Yes 20 units for up to 6 months

Prioritized ERF 50

Navigation Center Emergency Housing

No 48 beds for up to 6 months

Prioritized Both 50

Transitional Distributive Housing

No 24 beds for up to 18 months

Prioritized Both 50

Permanent Housing

Yes 30 beds with no limit of stay

Prioritized Both 25

Safe Parking No 20 parking spots for nighttime use withno limit of stay

Prioritized ERF 25

Table 2: Projected Housing and Service Pathways to Permanent Housing Describe Projected Housing and Service Pathway to Permanent Housing

Quantify the Capacity of the Housing and Service Pathway

Is this Housing and Service Pathway Funded by ERF-2-R and / or Leveraged Funds?

Safe Parking with Client-Centered Outreach Engagement Services

20 spots ERF

Hotel Vouchers with Case Management including but not limited to CA DSS Funding

40 rooms for 60 nights

ERF

Housing Vouchers with Case Management including but not limited to CA DSS Funding

20 units for up to 6 months

Both

Navigation Center Emergency Interim Housing and Onsite Wrap Around Services

48 beds for up to 6 months

Both

Transitional Distributive Housing with Case Management and Supportive Services

24 beds for up to 18 months

Both

Permanent Housing 30 beds Both

Pet Services & supports NA ERF

Table 3: Strategies to Mitigate Displacement Strategy Is this Strategy Funded by ERF-2-R and / or Leveraged Funds?

Intensive case-management with priority of client choice related to available services.

Both

Collaboration and coordination of outreach and case-planning before, during and after the cleaning and clearing of encampments

Both

Early outreach and communication of resolution efforts including contact information & timeline of resolution acttivity

Both

Engagement of community-based service providers in the connection with and Both care of those affected by resolution efforts

Provision of pet services Lev

Provision of transportation Lev

Provision of transportation & storage of personal belongings Both

Table 4: Strategies to Mitigate Returns to Unsheltered Homelessness Strategy Is this Strategy Funded by ERF-2-R and / or Leveraged Funds?

Intensive case-management with priority of client choice related to available services & resources

Both

Provision of housing navigation and landlord engagement/negotiations to avoid evictions

ERF

Support & resource for rental subsidy, utility payments and repairs ERF

Whole-person care & case management options as a resource to stabilization and housing security

Both

13. Describe how this proposal considers and plans for the dynamic nature of encampments including potential inflow of people into the geographically served areas. (1000 character limit) This proposal is based on data from County staff and service providers in the community related to the encampment resolution projects by Caltrans. With continued outreach and increased housing capacity, caseworkers will be able to offer both interim emergency shelter as well as transitional and permanent housing options to clients. The collaborative efforts of both County staff and community service providers are effective in building relationship and earning trust with the unhoused in Tuolumne County. A group called “Compassion Outreach”, which is a collaboration of volunteers from Resiliency Village, Nancy’s Hope, the Chicken Ranch Rancheria Me-Wuk Indians of California and the Lambert Drop-in Center, effectively engages unhoused individuals with available services to include food, hygiene, medical & healthcare, and benefits eligibility. Outreach efforts will continue to those who are new to the area or repopulating sites, offering more stable housing options.

14. Describe how this proposal will support individuals with continued access to and / or the storage of their personal property. (1000 character limit) Tuolumne County Health & Humans Services Agency takes a trauma-informed approach to case management. This includes an understanding of the complexities of attachment to the accumulated personal possessions that many homeless have. As a result, standard practice is to make arrangements for safe storage of personal possessions with ample access to those possessions. Related to the Caltrans work in Tuolumne County in 2022, staff offered storage bins and secure storage of those bins. Trailers and vehicles were also stored as needed. The new Tuolumne County Navigation Center will have secure and protected space for storing personal possessions for program participants. In regard to new housing initiatives, storage and access provisions will be made for every program participant.

15. Describe how this proposal will support individuals with service animals and/or pets. (1000 character limit) Homeless Services is committed to compliance with all relevant laws regarding service animals and pets.

It is recognized that pets play a significant role in supporting people through trauma, healing and to self-sufficiency. As a part of Navigation services, Tuolumne County is in relationship with several veterinarians as well as Tuolumne County Animal Control. Through these partnerships our Homeless Services efforts will help to provide necessary veterinarian services, vaccinations, licensing and food. The emergency shelter will also have a pet run/area to support health and safety for all program participants. A new partner initiative with a local non-profit called Friends of the Animal Community will include an option to participate in a short term pet fostering program. Funding is needed to support this program.

Budget and Resource Plan

16. State the total amount of ERF-2-R funds requested.

$3,851,623.00

17. State the estimated dollar value of secured, non-ERF-2-R resources that will help meet this proposal’s outcomes.

$2,402,627.00

18. Identify and describe these non-ERF-2-R resources. (1000 character limit)

GRANT

AMOUNT

CARE ACT Housing Funds 400,000 Opioid Settlement Funds 400,000 HHAP-4 Funds 502,627 Behavioral Health Bridge Housing 550,000 Mental Health Services Act 550,000

TOTAL

$2,402,627

Other leveraged housing funding will source from program monies made available for services & operations through California DSS.

19. Describe how the proposal is a prudent and effective use of requested funding relative to the number of people it seeks to serve and the types of services and housing to be provided in the proposal. Include an explanation of how the requested ERF-2-R amount was determined. (1000 character limit) The priority use for homeless housing grant monies for Tuolumne County is the acquisition of emergency, transitional and permanent housing. Owning the properties instead of renting or leasing assures longevity of program services because the housing will not be grant dependent. The County does not pay property tax, is self-insured and is a part of a joint powers authority for reduced electricity costs, and will not have a mortgage assuring long-term sustainability of housing programs. The system of care is designed to be a flow toward permanent housing and self-sufficiency allowing for many more people to be served over time than the total bed capacity of any one night.

These funds are an investment into a future and sustainable system of support and housing provision.

Attachment: Standardized Budget ERF-2-R, Budget for Tuolumne County 06 2023.xlsx

Key Entities and Staff

20. First, describe the implementing organization and specific unit or office within the implementing organization that would administer ERF-2-R. Then, describe their role and primary responsibilities for this proposal. Finally, if these entities have managed a complex homelessness project or grant, describe how those experiences informed this proposal. (1500 character limit) Homeless Services purposes to engage the homeless on a path toward permanent housing through extensive partnerships. HHSA is the implementing organization and will administer the ERF-2 funds.

Homeless Services and Capital Projects staff are working collaboratively on the acquisition and funding of the Navigation Center, Distributive & Permanent Housing initiatives. A Housing Navigator will be a part of the Homeless Services staff assuring compliance with tenancy laws and best practice requirements for landlord/tenant engagement. HHSA currently owns and operates two supportive housing projects as a part of the Distributive Housing Program and an emergency children’s shelter. Their success in providing housing and supportive services for over 13 years is, in part, what led to the decision to expand the Distributive Housing program model and services. Capital Projects and Health & Human Services Agency have vast experience in seeking and managing grant funds. These funds are drawn down within very complicated allocation processes and reporting requirements. The staff team is prepared and equipped to expand their scope of housing services and build on their past success to provide dignified housing choices for the unhoused of Tuolumne County.

Table 5: Key Staff Title Currently

Filled Position?

FTE of Staffing for This Proposal

Funded by ERF-2-R and / or Leveraged Funds?

Brief Description of Duties

Director Health and Human Services Agency

Yes .10 Leveraged Oversees HHSA

Social Services Director

Yes .20 Leveraged Oversees Social Services

Social Services Agency Manager

Yes .33 Leveraged Manages Adult Systems of Care

Behavioral Health Worker

Yes .33 Leveraged Supports Homeless BH Clients

Homeless Services Coordinator

Yes 1 Leveraged Coordinates County Homeless Housing

Social Service Yes .5 Leveraged Manages Social Workers

Supervisor

Cleric Yes .5 Leveraged Clerical Support

Social Worker Yes 1 Leveraged Direct Support/Case Management

Social Worker Yes 1 Leveraged Direct Support/Case Management

Social Worker No 1 ERF CES/HMIS

Housing Navigator

No 1 ERF Housing Services/Landlord Engagement

Behavioral Health Worker

Yes 1 Leveraged Direct Support/Case Management

Peer Specialist Yes 1 Leveraged Direct Support/Lived Experience/Case Management

21. First, describe key partners that will collectively pursue the proposal's outcomes. Then, describe their role and primary responsibilities for this proposal. Finally, if these entities have managed a complex homelessness project or grant, describe how those experiences informed this proposal. (1500 character limit) Homeless Services and Capital Projects are running point on identifying properties that will support the Distributive Housing program models and their procurement. Capital Projects Department has extensive experience with large scale building projects and the complicated funding streams that support those efforts. Most recently multi-million-dollar developments were completed to include a Law & Justice Center (Courts, Juvenile Detention Center, County Jail, Public Transit) and Community Resilience Centers in Tuolumne & Groveland (related to catastrophic wildfires). HHSA currently owns and operates two supportive housing projects as a part of the Distributive Housing Program as well as an emergency children’s shelter. HHSA successfully provided emergency non-congregate housing through Project Roomkey during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Data from HHSA regarding housing initiatives demonstrates their ability to manage complex funding streams while succeeding at various types of housing placements.

In 2022, HHSA received 380 referrals for housing services. 161 individuals received temporary housing at motels (up to two weeks). 100 individuals were placed in permanent housing. The Amador Tuolumne Community Action Agency is a valued partner offering homelessness prevention and housing services in collaboration with County staff. The Central Sierra Continuum of Care supports collaboration for reducing homelessness in our local region to include funding and goal setting.

22. Describe specific examples of how Local Jurisdiction(s) and the CoC have collaborated on the design and implementation of this proposal. (1000 character limit) The Central Sierra Continuum of Care includes four counties located along the foothills of the Sierra Nevada in the Mother Lode Gold Rush Country. The main highway is State Highway 49 which is a scenic route that connects all of these historic communities to each other and to both the Stanislaus National Forrest and Yosemite National Park. Representatives of these communities met with Dr. Patricia Davis from the Central Sierra Continuum of Care to discuss the ERF grant and the possibility of a cooperative project. Only a few of the communities had encampments along the state highway corridors that involved Caltrans resolution efforts. It was noted that the communities impacted were distanced from each other by 100 miles and were active in seeking homeless housing solutions in different ways. As a result, it was decided that each affected community would apply for funds individually under advisement of the CSCOC.

Tuolumne County has the support of the CSCOC and the City of Sonora.

Optional Upload: Evidence of Cross-Jurisdictional Collaboration

COC Letter of Support Tuolumne ERF.pdf

AH Sonora Letter of Support Tuolumne ERF.pdf

RV Letter of Support Tuolumne ERF.pdf

23. Identify any entities that have a right to and/or control of the property upon which the encampment site resides and discuss whether each of these entities committed allowing the implementation of this proposal. If they have not committed, please explain how you have or plan to engage with this entity to implement your proposal. Aditionally, describe how you collaborated with Caltrans on your program design, implementation plans, and timeline. (1000 character limit) Caltrans staff was exemplary in their coordinated efforts with the encampment resolution in Tuolumne County in the Summer of 2022. With regard to this application, connections with Caltrans Public Information Office, Homeless Encampment Liaison to Local Partners, Statewide Homelessness and Encampment Coordinator, and Caltrans Maintenance Area Superintendent have been supportive of County efforts through the exchange of information and meeting onsite to evaluate encampment repopulation and the establishment of new encampments on adjacent properties. Caltrans District 10 Director, Dennis Agar, and District 10 Deputy Director for Maintenance, Charla Mordell, are aware of Tuolumne County housing efforts and Encampment Enrich Funds application as evidenced by their submitted letter of support. Meetings with all of the encampment resolution efforts from Caltrans were regarding State property. Resolution of new encampments are supported by both the City of Sonora and Tuolumne County.

Centering People

24. How were persons with lived experience meaningfully incorporated into the planning and proposed implementation of this proposal? Please identify whether any perspectives were incorporated from persons that are currently unsheltered and / or formerly or currently residing within the prioritized encampment. (1000 character limit) Through one-on-one meetings, participation in advisory committees, participation in public meetings, engagement with service providers and County staff, those with lived experience (from both the community at large and those displaced by resolution activity) have contributed to the formation of the homeless housing strategies that are being implemented in Tuolumne County. All of the housing initiatives being developed have been informed and influenced by those with lived experience. One recent example of the influence of the “voice” of the unhoused in our community is that the safe parking program was not originally an established priority but now is under development and a part of this request. Those who left the encampment areas in their cars moved to the public library parking lot which feels unsafe for them. The County owns property that can be developed into a safe parking program which will become a street outreach program. Funding is needed to support this initiative.

25. Briefly describe how the proposal exemplifies Housing First approaches as defined in Welfare and Institutions Code section 8255. (1000 character limit) Low barrier entry points coupled with developing and trusting relationships between outreach workers and the homeless will ensure the best beginning on a path to self-sufficiency. Program participants will be welcomed and supported at a level that is accepted. Services will be offered, resources will be shared and partnerships with community-based service providers will be forged. Should a person choose to not engage in services, they will still be welcomed with efforts, and hope, toward a future engagement in services. HHSA recognizes that drug and alcohol use and addiction may be a part of the lives of many.

Program participants will be offered services for increased health and wellness without judgment or condemnation. Tuolumne County is and has been committed to low-barrier, Housing First principles.

26. Briefly describe how this proposal will center an individual’s choice and provide trauma informed services and supports. (1000 character limit) Self-determination is a key element on the path to self-sufficiency. During the Coordinated Entry and benefits eligibility process, individuals will be made aware of options (with implementation of trauma-informed best practices) for services and will determine which services they want to engage. Staff has training and skill in motivational interviewing practices that build trust and foster “voice & choice” with clients in a way that helps staff to better understand what services clients want and will engage in without re-traumatizing clients through repeated questions and narrative about their story. All services offered are voluntary and not required.

27. Describe how this proposal will operationalize harm reduction and provide services that improve a person’s health, dignity, and safety while they continue to reside within the prioritized encampment site. (1000 character limit) For those who remain in encampments and those who are housed and connected to services, a trauma-informed approach is best practice and one that is implemented by County staff and service providers.

Nonjudgmental communication on harm reduction and how to avoid other risky behaviors by engaging in safer practices will be offered. This includes education on drug and alcohol use. Voluntary service referrals will be offered for any resident who requests these services, or who may benefit from these services based on information shared during outreach and case management.

28. For encamped locations that are objectively dangerous, describe how the proposal will seek to prevent harm for people experiencing unsheltered homelessness in these locations. (1000 character limit) There are elevated risks and for those living in encampments and the community at large. These risks include impacts on physical and mental health, poor nutrition and medical care, lack of sanitation and potable water and poor sleeping conditions. There are environmental impacts on waterways because of human waste and garbage, and increased risk of wildfires. Extreme weather conditions with heat, rain and snow also jeopardize the health and safety of those in the encampments. Efforts to reduce these risks include increased outreach, education, and support services with priority placed on engagement in housing services.

29. Identify what controls are or will be in place to ensure that all ERF-2-R funded parties will not penalize homelessness. The term “penalize homelessness” means to impose, by a governmental unit, criminal or civil penalties on persons who are homeless in a manner that is related to those persons’ engagement in necessary human activities, including sleeping, resting, and eating. (1000 character limit) Tuolumne County Counsel is well-versed in precedent setting caselaw that does not allow the County to criminalize homelessness. The County has made no effort to make it “illegal” to be homeless.

Demonstrative effort on the part of the Board of Supervisors, the County Administrator, and the Sherriff’s Department has been exerted to connect the homeless people in the community to services and housing and not to penalize those who chose not to connect. The Board of Supervisors has declared a local housing emergency and enacted new housing ordiances to equip staff to better meet the needs of the unhoused. If more housing were available, we would be more successful in supporting people to healthier and vitalized living. These grant funds, if awarded, will help to implement a strategy to reduce homelessness in Tuolumne County by providing emergency, transitional and permanent housing for those who have been abated from State property.

30. Describe how this proposal considers sanitation services for people residing in the prioritized encampment. This may include but is not limited to non-intrusive, curb-side waste removal and access to clean and available bathrooms. (1000 character limit) Tuolumne County facilities open for public use for toilets, sinks, showers and potable water. The City of Sonora has public restrooms throughout. the city. “Give Someone a Chance”’ has a portable shower bus and a laundry bus that circulate throughout the community. The County has contracted with the local waste management agency to allow for 1000 tons of trash to be disposed for free. Members of the Homelessness Committee have organized volunteer days with community members going into encampments, to pick up trash. 1PileataTime has also organized trash pickup days. Compassion

Outreach is encouraging campers to collect garbage and volunteers will pick it up and dispose of it.

Education efforts for the public have been implemented to donate directly to service providers who could control waste instead of donating goods directly to homeless individuals. A few service providers have a “bag for bag” exchange program where they give a bag of food in exchange for a bag of garbage, Accelerated Timeline

31. How is your community currently supporting and / or engaging with people residing within the prioritized encampment? (1000 character limit) 22 partnership agencies provide outreach and services for individuals in the scattered encampments and have been contributors to the development of the Navigation Center & Distributive Housing program model. Each of these partner agencies have comprehensive volunteerism to support their agency’s mission and are committed to successful outcomes of the Navigation Center & Distributive Housing program. Many of these agencies wrote letters of support that can't be included in this application because the upload for proof of collaboration only allows for three submissions. Their letters are compelling and clearly communicate their desire to combine efforts and reduce homelessness in aggressive ways, with compassion for those living unhoused. We need funding.

32. If this proposal is selected, in advance of receiving funding, what steps will your community take to support the people living in the encampment and swift implementation of this proposal?

(1000 character limit) Outreach that exists now will continue as will case management and efforts to provide supportive services and housing. Rural communities continue to be underfunded and overlooked for funding in inequitable ways. While Tuolumne County is one of the largest counties in the state by way of land mass. 77% of the County is public lands (including Yosemite National Park and the Stanislaus National Forrest) that do not create tax-based discretionary income. We need financial support. One large grant combined with other funding streams and community partnerships could help alleviate human suffering and reduce homelessness in Tuolumne County in very significant ways and in a manner that is aligned with our County’s Homeless Services System of Care. We have the vision, the strategy, and the partnerships, but we need the funding.

Table 6: Projected Milestones Outreach to the people residing in the prioritized encampment site began / will begin in month

This proposal will reach full operating capacity in month

The first planned exit of a person or household from the prioritized encampment will occur in month______.

The last planned exit of a person or household from the prioritized encampment will occur in month _____.

June 2022 January 2025 November 2023 May 2026

Attachment: Standardized Timeline ERF-2-R Project Timeline for Tuolumne County 06 2023.xlsx

Applicants must use the ERF-2-R Timeline Template available on box.com https://dca.box.com/s/kl1r5ndssno0uygi66sz7b4zooweolts https://dca.box.com/s/kl1r5ndssno0uygi66sz7b4zooweolts https://dca.box.com/s/kl1r5ndssno0uygi66sz7b4zooweolts https://dca.box.com/s/kl1r5ndssno0uygi66sz7b4zooweolts https://dca.box.com/s/kl1r5ndssno0uygi66sz7b4zooweolts

CERTIFICATION

Before certifying, applicants are strongly encouraged to review the NOFA.

I certify that all information included in this Application is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

Name Michael Roberson

Title Homeless Services Coordinator