See below for vital updates and programs provided by the California Department Of Social And Health Services, aimed at supporting individuals and families across the state.
Progress Report: Advancing Early Learning and Care in California
California is dedicated to strengthening its early learning and child care system through the Master Plan for Early Learning and Care. Significant strides have been made in implementing this plan, which serves as a roadmap for a more robust and equitable system. For detailed insights into the progress, access the comprehensive progress report.
CalWORKs Housing Support Program: A Decade of Housing Assistance
The CalWORKs Housing Support Program marks its 10th anniversary, celebrating a decade of providing crucial housing assistance and extensive supportive services. This program is designed for CalWORKs recipients facing or at risk of homelessness, offering a vital lifeline to families in need. Discover more about the CalWORKs Housing Support Program and read the 10-Year Anniversary Newsletter for program highlights and success stories.
Community Care Expansion Grants: Boosting Housing Availability Statewide
Nearly $570 million in Community Care Expansion (CCE) program grants have been allocated to innovative housing projects throughout California. These CCE initiatives are actively increasing housing options at licensed adult and senior care residences, permanent supportive housing sites, and unique projects such as housing on Tribal lands for elders. These diverse housing solutions will offer essential services to promote independent living for older adults and adults with disabilities vulnerable to or experiencing homelessness. Explore the Community Care Expansion (CCE) program for more information and view the CCE data dashboard for details on grantees and awards. Watch a video showcasing the impact of CCE projects.
Enhancing Foster Youth Services: Steps Towards a Better System
California is committed to transforming foster care, guided by the Continuum of Care Reform (CCR). The CCR is built on the principle that every child in foster care deserves to grow up in a loving family setting, not in group facilities. Since the CCR’s implementation in 2017, California has been working towards a permanent foster care rate structure. The Department of Social and Health Services has recently introduced a new, permanent rate structure, shaped by input from foster youth, county agencies, Tribes, and stakeholders. This rate restructuring, effective July 1, 2027, aims to address historical inequities and break cycles of poverty and trauma by basing rates on individual child needs rather than placement type. Learn more about Continuum of Care Reform (CCR), and access additional information and a summary of the new rate structure.
SUN Bucks Summer Food Program: Supporting Children’s Nutrition
The SUN Bucks program provides $40 per month for food during the summer months of June, July, and August ($120 total) to ensure children have access to nutrition when school meals are unavailable. This program automatically enrolls most children who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals, or those receiving CalFresh, CalWORKs, and/or Medi-Cal (at or below 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Level). Families largely do not need to take action to receive SUN Bucks. However, children not automatically enrolled can submit a SUN Bucks application to their school by August 31 annually to check eligibility based on household size and income. Learn more about SUN Bucks and how this initiative supports children’s health and well-being during the summer.
CDSS Partners with UC Institutions to Strengthen Child Welfare Workforce
The California Department of Social and Health Services is collaborating with the University of California, Davis (UCD) and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) to enhance child welfare workforce development. The California Workforce Innovation, Support, and Education (CalWISE) program utilizes a partnership model to bolster the statewide child welfare workforce through data-driven education, training, and support. UCD and UCLA are co-leading the Title IV-E social worker education program, formerly managed by CalSWEC, bringing their combined expertise to improve outcomes for the child welfare workforce. UCD is focusing on curriculum development and practice integration, while UCLA is evaluating training resources for data-informed decisions and impact. This collaboration reflects a commitment to delivering high-quality, human-centered services to youth and families involved with the child welfare system. Visit the UCD website to explore the CalWISE program further.
Social Work Education: Training and Stipends Opportunities
In partnership with San Jose State University (SJSU), the California Department of Social and Health Services is promoting social work education through training and stipends. These opportunities are available for both Master of Social Work and Bachelor of Arts in Social Work students who commit to employment in Adult Protective Services post-graduation. This initiative aims to strengthen the workforce in critical social services areas. Visit the SJSU website for detailed information on training and stipend applications.
Project Roomkey Success: Providing Shelter During the Pandemic
A newly released report from the California Department of Social and Health Services highlights the significant success of Project Roomkey. This groundbreaking state program provided non-congregate shelter options, such as hotels and motels, for individuals experiencing homelessness during the pandemic. Project Roomkey was crucial in protecting vulnerable populations and reducing strain on healthcare systems. The Department has also issued an issue brief (English, Spanish) and a news release (English, Spanish) detailing the program’s impact and outcomes.
EBT Card Security: Protecting Your Benefits from Theft and Scams
The California Department of Social and Health Services is addressing the rise in Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) theft with crucial security advice for cardholders. Educational videos with EBT security tips are available in English and Spanish. If you suspect EBT theft, immediately call the customer service number on the back of your EBT card (877) 328-9677 or contact your county social services agency.
The ebtEDGE mobile app and web portal offers California EBT cardholders tools to safeguard their CalFresh and CalWORKs benefits. This free app can be downloaded from the Apple App store and Google Play store, with web-based access also available. Informative videos about the app are provided in English and Spanish.
Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI): Support for Eligible Immigrants
The Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) offers financial aid to immigrants in California who meet specific criteria: being 65 or older, blind, or disabled. CAPI eligibility is based on immigration status, income, and resource requirements. Visit the CAPI program website to find out more about eligibility and the application process.
Public Charge Rule Update: Ensuring Access to Essential Services for Immigrants
A significant update to the public charge rule, implemented by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on December 23, 2022, ensures that immigrants in California can access medical care, food assistance, and public housing without concerns about public charge implications. Under this rule, utilizing CalFresh, public housing, or Medi-Cal (excluding long-term care) will not negatively impact public charge determinations. COVID-19 related medical services, including testing, treatment, and vaccines, are also excluded from public charge considerations. For further details, refer to the public charge rule information.
Individuals seeking assistance can consult state-funded legal services organizations for immigrants. A list of immigration services providers funded by CDSS is available for consultation.
IHSS Program: 50+ Years of Supporting Independent Living for Californians
The In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program is celebrating over 50 years of enabling California residents to live safely and independently at home, preventing unnecessary institutionalization. The IHSS program provides vital support to individuals needing assistance with daily living activities. To learn more about the IHSS program, visit the IHSS webpage or contact your local county IHSS office. Watch a video to understand the impact of IHSS.
Adult Protective Services Hotline: Protecting Adults from Abuse and Neglect
If you or someone you know requires protection from abuse or neglect, please contact the statewide Adult Protective Services hotline at (833) 401-0832. This hotline operates 24/7, connecting callers to their local county Adult Protective Services staff by entering their 5-digit ZIP code.
Foster Care Ombudsperson Hotline: Advocating for Children in Foster Care
For concerns regarding the care, placement, services, or rights of children in foster care, call the Foster Care Ombudsperson hotline at (877) 846-1602. This service is available Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, excluding holidays.
