For Immediate Release
June 22, 2020
Contact: Gene Kennedy
Senior Public Information Specialist
gkennedy@rivco.org
(951) 203-0343
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Riverside County Partners Earn National Award for Helping Homeless Seniors |
RIVERSIDE COUNTY, Ca.— A specialized team of medical, behavioral health, social services, law enforcement, and housing authority professionals has earned a national award for getting homeless Riverside County seniors off the streets and into housing.
The award from the National Association of Counties recognizes the coordination and collaboration of services between the many Riverside County agencies that make up the Curtailing Abuse Related to the Elderly (CARE) Team, which focuses on complex homeless cases throughout the county.
“This cooperation between public and private stakeholders allowed us to meet the needs of high-risk elders and dependent adults who frequently fall between the cracks of government safety nets,” said Todd Bellanca, program director of Riverside County Adult Services.
Bellanca credited the program’s success to strong relationships with existing partners that include the Homeless Housing Opportunities, Partnership & Education mental health team, and the Housing Authority.
“This team was quickly formed and addressed service gaps,” Bellanca said.
The multidisciplinary team is coordinated by Riverside County Adult Services. It has managed nearly 100 high-risk cases, providing services such as permanent housing and access to health and behavioral health interventions since 2018, when it began.
“We are seeing firsthand how counties across the nation are working tirelessly to support their residents,” said Mary Ann Borgeson, president of the National Association of Counties. “This year’s Achievement Award winners showcase how counties are building and supporting healthy, safe and vibrant communities across America.”
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