HomeMy WebLinkAboutBOARD STANDING COMMITTEES - 09282020 - FHS Cte Agenda Pkt
FAMILY & HUMAN SERVICES
COMMITTEE
September 28, 2020
9:00 A.M.
Virtual Meeting
The Public may observe and participate in the virtual Zoom meeting by using
this link:
https://cccounty-us.zoom.us/j/98411599033
OR
Calling in using this phone number and Meeting ID code:
1-888-278-0254
Meeting ID: 786066
Supervisor John Gioia, Chair
Supervisor Candace Andersen, Vice Chair
Agenda
Items:
Items may be taken out of order based on the business of the day and preference
of the Committee
1.Introductions
2.Public comment on any item under the jurisdiction of the Committee and not on this
agenda (speakers may be limited to three minutes).
3. RECEIVE and APPROVE the draft Record of Action for the August 24, 2020 Family
& Human Services Committee Meeting.
4. CONSIDER making recommendations to the Board of Supervisors on the following
advisory body appointments, re-appointments or vacancies:
a. RECOMMEND to the Board of Supervisors reappointment to the Contra Costa
Advisory Council on Aging (ACOA) the nine individuals listed for At-Large Seats with
all terms expiring on September 30, 2022, as recommended by the Council:
At-Large Seat #2: Shirley Krohn
At-Large Seat #5: Deborah Card
At-Large Seat #6: Steve Lipson
At-Large Seat #7: Summer Selleck
At-Large Seat #10: Terri Tobey
At-Large Seat #12: Nuru Neemuchwalla
At-Large Seat #15: Mary Bruns
At-Large Seat #17: Kevin Donovan
At-Large Seat #20: Susan Frederick1
At-Large Seat #20: Susan Frederick
(Anthony Macias, Employment and Human Services Department)
5. CONSIDER receiving a report from the Employment and Human Services Department
on the implementation of the CalFresh benefit expansion, update on the CalFresh
Outreach Plan and CalFresh staffing needs. (Kathy Gallagher, Employment and Human
Services Director)
6. CONSIDER accepting a report from the Employment and Human Services Department
on the oversight and activities of the Community Services Bureau. (Kathy Gallagher,
Employment and Human Services Director)
7.The next Regular Meeting of the Family and Human Services Committee scheduled for
October 26, 2020 at 9:00AM has been cancelled. The Committee will hold a Special
Meeting on October 29, 2020 at 1:00PM.
8.Adjourn
The Family & Human Services Committee will provide reasonable accommodations for persons
with disabilities planning to attend Family & Human Services Committee meetings. Contact the
staff person listed below at least 72 hours before the meeting.
Any disclosable public records related to an open session item on a regular meeting agenda and
distributed by the County to a majority of members of the Family & Human Services Committee
less than 96 hours prior to that meeting are available for public inspection at 1025 Escobar Street,
4th Floor, Martinez, CA, during normal business hours.
Public comment may be submitted via electronic mail on agenda items at least one full work day
prior to the published meeting time.
For Additional Information Contact:
Dennis Bozanich, Committee Staff
Phone (925) 655-2050, Fax (925) 655-2066
Dennis.Bozanich@cao.cccounty.us
2
FAMILY AND HUMAN SERVICES
COMMITTEE 3.
Meeting Date:09/28/2020
Subject:RECORD OF ACTION FOR THE PREVIOUS FHS MEETING
Submitted For: David Twa, County Administrator
Department:County Administrator
Referral No.: NA
Referral Name: NA
Presenter: Dennis Bozanich Contact: Dennis Bozanich;
925-655-2050
Referral History:
County Ordinance requires that each County body keep a record of its meetings. Though the
record need not be verbatim, it must accurately reflect the agenda and the decisions made in the
meeting.
Referral Update:
Attached is the draft Record of Action for the August 24, 2020 Family & Human Services
Committee Meeting.
Recommendation(s)/Next Step(s):
RECEIVE and APPROVE the draft Record of Action for the August 24, 2020 Family & Human
Services Committee Meeting.
Fiscal Impact (if any):
None
Attachments
DRAFT Record of Action - August 24, 2020
3
D R A F T
FAMILY AND HUMAN SERVICES
COMMITTEE
RECORD OF ACTION FOR
August 24, 2020
Supervisor John Gioia, Chair
Supervisor Candace Andersen, Vice Chair
Present: John Gioia, Chair
Candace Andersen, Vice Chair
1.Introductions
Meeting was called to order at 9:00 A.M.
2.Public comment on any item under the jurisdiction of the Committee and not on
this agenda (speakers may be limited to three minutes).
No public comment.
3.RECEIVE and APPROVE the draft Record of Action for the July 27, 2020
Family & Human Services Committee Meeting.
Recommended action was approved. No public comment.
AYE: Chair John Gioia
Vice Chair Candace Andersen
4.CONSIDER each of the following advisory board appointments, re-appointments
or vacancy declarations for possible recommendation to the Board of
Supervisors.
a.RECOMMEND to the Board of Supervisors appointment of Sara Shafiabady to
the At Large No. 4 seat on the Advisory Council on Aging for a term expiring
September 30, 2022 as recommended by the Council.
Recommended action was approved. Item will be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors. No
public comment.
AYE: Chair John Gioia 4
AYE: Chair John Gioia
Vice Chair Candace Andersen
b.RECOMMEND to the Board of Supervisors the reappointment of Lisa Johnson to
the First Five Commission Seat 1, as well as the appointments of Micaela Mota
to the Child Development/Early Childhood Education/Local Planning Council
Seat 3 and Katie Callahan Cisco to At-Large 2 seat on the Family and Children's
Trust Committee each for terms ending on September 30, 2022, as
recommended by the Employment and Human Services Department.
Recommended action was approved. Item will be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors. No
public comment.
AYE: Chair John Gioia
Vice Chair Candace Andersen
c.RECOMMEND the Board of Supervisors appoint:
Shailaja Dixit, as At Large Seat Commissioner on the CCCWG, a term
ending August 24, 2024, and
Silvia Young, as AT Large Seat Commissioner on the CCCWG, a term
ending August 24, 2024.
Recommended action was approved. Item will be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors. No
public comment.
AYE: Chair John Gioia
Vice Chair Candace Andersen
5.CONSIDER accepting and submitting for approval to the Board of Supervisors
modifications to the FACT Policies and Procedures, and
CONSIDER accepting and submitting for approval to the Board of Supervisors
the ability for the FACT Committee to extend a third contract renewal to second
year FACT contract recipients that meet the criteria for renewal.
Recommended action was approved with the addition of "subject to Board approval" to Article
II; Paragraph 1 to match Paragraph 2. Item will be submitted to the Board of Supervisors with
addition. No public comment.
AYE: Chair John Gioia
Vice Chair Candace Andersen
6.ACCEPT the report from the Employment and Human Services Department on
aging and adult services, including the progress made to address the issue of
elder abuse in Contra Costa County.
Recommended action was approved. Public comment was provided recommending access to
aging and adult services through the use of technology.
5
AYE: Chair John Gioia
Vice Chair Candace Andersen
7.The next meeting is currently scheduled for September 28, 2020.
8.Adjourn
Meeting was adjourned at 9:50 A.M.
For Additional Information Contact:
Dennis Bozanich, Committee Staff
Phone (925) 335-1037, Fax (925) 646-1353
Dennis.Bozanich@cao.cccounty.us
6
FAMILY AND HUMAN SERVICES
COMMITTEE 4.
Meeting Date:09/28/2020
Subject:CONSIDER recommendations to the Board on the following advisory
body appointments, re-appointments or vacancies
Submitted For: David Twa, County Administrator
Department:County Administrator
Referral No.: NA
Referral Name: Advisory Body Appointments
Presenter: Dennis Bozanich Contact: Dennis Bozanich; 925-655-2050
Referral History:
On December 6, 2011 the Board of Supervisors adopted Resolution No. 2011/497 adopting policy
governing appointments to boards, committees, and commissions that are advisory to the Board of
Supervisors. Included in this resolution was a requirement that applications for at
large/countywide seats be reviewed by a Board of Supervisors committee.
Referral Update:
Recommendation(s)/Next Step(s):
CONSIDER each of the following advisory board appointments, re-appointments or vacancy
declarations for possible recommendation to the Board of Supervisors.
Fiscal Impact (if any):
NA
Attachments
No file(s) attached.
7
FAMILY AND HUMAN SERVICES
COMMITTEE 4. a.
Meeting Date:09/28/2020
Subject:Appointment to the Advisory Council on Aging
Submitted For: David Twa, County Administrator
Department:County Administrator
Referral No.: N/A
Referral Name: Appointments to Advisory Bodies
Presenter: Anthony Macias Contact: Anthony Macias,
925.602.4175
Referral History:
On December 6, 2011 the Board of Supervisors adopted Resolution No. 2011/497 adopting policy
governing appointments to boards, committees, and commissions that are advisory to the Board of
Supervisors. Included in this resolution was a requirement that applications for at
large/countywide seats be reviewed by a Board of Supervisors committee. The Advisory Council
on Aging provides a means for county-wide planning, cooperation and coordination for
individuals and groups interested in improving and developing services and opportunities for the
older residents of this County. The Council provides leadership and advocacy on behalf of older
persons and serves as a channel of communication and information on aging.
The Advisory Council on Aging consists of 40 members serving 2 year staggered terms, each
ending on September 30. The Council consists of representatives of the target population and the
general public, including older low-income and military persons; at least one-half of the
membership must be made up of actual consumers of services under the Area Plan. The Council
includes: 19 representatives recommended from each Local Committee on Aging, 1
representative from the Nutrition Project Council, 1 Retired Senior Volunteer Program, and 19
Members at-Large.
The Area Agency on Aging, the ACOA Membership Committee and the Clerk of the Board,
using CCTV, recruit for these seats. The Contra Costa County EHSD website contains dedicated
web content where interested members of the public are encouraged to apply. The website
provides access to the Board of Supervisors official application with instructions on whom to
contact for ACOA related inquiries, including application procedure.
Referral Update:
The Contra Costa Area Agency on Aging (AAA) recommends the following (9) individuals for
8
The Contra Costa Area Agency on Aging (AAA) recommends the following (9) individuals for
reappointment to At-Large Seats assigned to the Contra Costa Advisory Council on Aging
(ACOA) with terms expiring on September 30, 2022:
At-Large Seat #2: Shirley Krohn
At-Large Seat #5: Deborah Card
At-Large Seat #6: Steve Lipson
At-Large Seat #7: Summer Selleck
At-Large Seat #10: Terri Tobey
At-Large Seat #12: Nuru Neemuchwalla
At-Large Seat #15: Mary Bruns
At-Large Seat #17: Kevin Donovan
At-Large Seat #20: Susan Frederick
The Membership Committee and the Councils current President, Susan Frederick, recommends
the reappointment of the above list of MAL members who are interested in serving an additional
term. Please find copies of the members’ applications provided as separate attachments.
Recommendation(s)/Next Step(s):
RECOMMEND to the Board of Supervisors reappointment to the Contra Costa Advisory Council
on Aging (ACOA) the nine individuals listed for At-Large Seats with all terms expiring on
September 30, 2022, as recommended by the Council:
At-Large Seat #2: Shirley Krohn
At-Large Seat #5: Deborah Card
At-Large Seat #6: Steve Lipson
At-Large Seat #7: Summer Selleck
At-Large Seat #10: Terri Tobey
At-Large Seat #12: Nuru Neemuchwalla
At-Large Seat #15: Mary Bruns
At-Large Seat #17: Kevin Donovan
At-Large Seat #20: Susan Frederick
Fiscal Impact (if any):
There is no fiscal impact.
Attachments
Reappointment Memo
Reappoint Application - M_Bruns
Reappoint Application - D_Card
Reappoint Application - K_Donovan
Reappoint Application - S_Frederick
Reappoint Application - S_Krohn
Reappoint Application - S_Lipson
Reappoint Application - N_Neemuchwalla
9
Reappoint Application - S_Selleck
Reappoint Application - T_Tobey
10
1 of 1
Kathy Gallagher, Director
40 Douglas Dr., Martinez, CA 94553 Phone: (925) 313-1579 Fax: (925) 313-1575 www.cccounty.us/ehsd .
MEMORANDUM
DATE: 09/2 1/2020
T O: Family and Human Services Committee
CC: Tracy Murray, Director Aging and Adult Services
FROM : Anthony Macias, Area Agency on Aging Senior Staff Assistant
SUBJECT: Advisory Council on Aging – Appointment Requested
The Contra Costa Area Agency on Aging (AAA) recommends the following (9) individuals for reappointment
to At-Large Seats assigned to the Contra Costa Advisory Council on Aging (ACOA) with terms expiring on
September 30, 2022:
At-Large Seat #2: Shirley Krohn
At-Large Seat #5: Deborah Card
At-Large Seat #6: Steve Lipson
At-Large Seat #7: Summer Selleck
At-Large Seat #10: Terri Tobey
At-Large Seat #12: Nuru Neemuchwalla
At-Large Seat #15: Mary Bruns
At-Large Seat #17: Kevin Donovan
At-Large Seat #20: Susan Frederick
The Area Agency on Aging, the ACOA Membership Committee and the Clerk of the Board, using CCTV,
recruit for these seats. The Contra Costa County EHSD website contains dedicated web content where
interested members of the public are encouraged to apply. The website provides access to the Board of
Supervisors official application with instructions on whom to contact for ACOA related inquiries, including
application procedure.
The Membership Committee and the Councils current President, Susan Frederick, recommends the
reappointment of the above list of MAL members who are interested in serving an additional term. Please find
copies of the members’ applications provided as separate attachments.
Thank You
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FAMILY AND HUMAN SERVICES
COMMITTEE 5.
Meeting Date:09/28/2020
Subject:CONSIDER a report of the SNAP/CalFresh Program in Contra Costa
County
Submitted For: David Twa, County Administrator
Department:County Administrator
Referral No.: 103
Referral Name: SNAP/CalFresh Update
Presenter: Kathy Gallagher Contact: Kelly Curtis 925-608-4800
Referral History:
The SNAP Program was originally referred to the Family and Human Services Committee by the
Board or Supervisors on February 15, 2011. This program was formerly known as Food Stamps
and is currently known as the Federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). In
California, the name of the program is CalFresh. EHSD has presented periodic status reports to
the FHS related to concerns about extended wait times for benefits and the anticipated impact of
the expansion of CalFresh benefits to SSI (Supplemental Security Income/Supplementary
Payments) recipients effective June 1, 2019. FHS received status reports on September 24 and
December 3, 2018; and on April 22, June 10, July 29, and September 23, 2019. Staff reported
that CalFresh applications were beginning to level off at about 2,700 per month as compared to
2,200 per month prior to the SSI expansion. EHSD also presented a status report directly to the
Board of Supervisors on July 9, 2019. In November 2019, Kathy Gallagher and Rebecca Darnell
updated the FHS Committee. EHSD staff provided an update on June 22, 2020. During that
update, Committee members requested the return of EHSD staff in the Fall for a further update.
Referral Update:
Please see attached report from EHS Director Kathy Gallagher providing an update on the
department's implementation of the CalFresh benefits expansion, the department's CalFresh
Outreach Plan, and staffing needs.
Recommendation(s)/Next Step(s):
ACCEPT status report from the Employment and Human Services Department on the
department's implementation of the CalFresh benefits expansion, and its CalFresh Outreach Plan
and staffing needs.
Fiscal Impact (if any):
NA
37
NA
Attachments
CalFresh Update - September 28, 2020
38
Contra Costa County
Employment and Human Services Department
CalFresh Report
Family and Human Services Committee
September 28, 2020
EHSD CalFresh Report for FHS September 28, 2020 139
Due in part to COVID 19, 18 million children (1
in every four kids) may not know where they will
get their next meal.
Source:Feeding America
2
Returning to compliance with 90% of
applications processed in 30 days.
EHSD’s
CalFresh
caseloads
are higher
than the
numbers
experienced
at the height
of the Great
Recession.
Source: CalWIN
EHSD CalFresh Report for FHS September 28, 2020
34,134 37,184 40,197 42,729 42,386 42,921
0
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
30,000
35,000
40,000
45,000
50,000
CalFresh Caseload by Month
March -August 2020
92%86%
72%
96%96%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
120%
Apr-20 May-20 Jun-20 Jul-20 Aug-20
Applications Processed Timely
40
Applications
Over the past 20 months, two significant changes have resulted in unprecedented CalFresh caseloads in Contra Costa County. In May 2019, CalFresh
eligibility was expanded to SSI (Supplemental Security Income) recipients, resulting in an application surge through October 2019. The second and even
more significant application surge was driven by the economic impacts of COVID-19. Applications for benefits have remained above average since
March.
3EHSD CalFresh Report for FHS September 28, 2020Source: CalWIN
2,573
1,834 2,036 2,277
3,384
4,863
3,805
3,233 2,848 3,023
2,368 2,444 2,857 2,459
3,528
6,337
5,093
3,688 3,557 3,209
0
1,000
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
7,000
Jan-19 Feb-19 Mar-19 Apr-19 May-19 Jun-19 Jul-19 Aug-19 Sep-19 Oct-19 Nov-19 Dec-19 Jan-20 Feb-20 Mar-20 Apr-20 May-20 Jun-20 Jul-20 Aug-20
Applications by Month
Jan 2019 -August 2020
41
4EHSD CalFresh Report for FHS September 28, 2020Source: CF 296
Timeliness and Compliance
92%89%92%86%72%
96%96%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
120%
Feb-20 Mar-20 Apr-20 May-20 Jun-20 Jul-20 Aug-20
Percentage of Applications Processed Timely
96%94%
52%
45%
75%
95%95%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
120%
Feb-20 Mar-20 Apr-20 May-20 Jun-20 Jul-20 Aug-20
Percentage of Expedited CalFresh Benefits Processed Timely
42
Reasons Applications are Denied
5EHSD CalFresh Report for FHS September 28, 2020Source: CalWIN
Top 3 denial reasons
1.Over income
2.Missed mandatory interview appointment
3.Failed to provide mandatory verification
Strategies implemented since March to reduce procedural denials
•Adobe Sign for receiving email documents
•Telephonic signature for applications
Additional strategies being explored
•Automated text and/or voice reminders for appointments
•Secure text to submit verifications during phone interviews
•Updating EHSD.org to receive applicant verifications
43
Caseload
CalFresh caseloads have grown 62% in the past 20 months primarily due to CalFresh expansion to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients and COVID-19
financial impacts.
6EHSD CalFresh Report for FHS September 28, 2020Source: CalWIN
26,524 26,649 26,202 25,964 25,994 26,098 26,952 28,701 30,149 30,416 31,268 31,343 33,903 34,109 34,134
37,184
40,197 42,729 42,386 42,921
0
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
25,000
30,000
35,000
40,000
45,000
50,000
Jan-19 Feb-19 Mar-19 Apr-19 May-19 Jun-19 Jul-19 Aug-19 Sep-19 Oct-19 Nov-19 Dec-19 Jan-20 Feb-20 Mar-20 Apr-20 May-20 Jun-20 Jul-20 Aug-20
Caseloads by Month
Jan 2019 -August 2020
44
EHSD CalFresh Report for FHS September 28, 2020 7
Current Workload Impacts
CalFresh Recertifications were
deferred in March, April and May to
September, October and November
During Program Year 2019-20, the
average number of recertifications
due each month was 1108
(excluding deferred months).
Source: CalWIN
3,007
3,460
3,527
2,700
2,800
2,900
3,000
3,100
3,200
3,300
3,400
3,500
3,600
Sep-20 Oct-20 Nov-20
CalFresh Recertifications
Increase over Program Year 2019-20 Average
210%220%170%45
8EHSD CalFresh Report for FHS September 28, 2020
Staffing Efforts & Challenges
17
10
15
5
27
15
25 22
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
May 11,
2020
Trainees
Started
May 11,
2020
Graduates
June 1,
2020
Trainees
Started
June 1,
2020
Current
Trainees
June 15,
2020
Trainees
Started
June 15,
2020
Current
Trainees
August 17
2020,
Trainees
Started
August 17
2020,
Current
Trainees
Eligibility Worker Training May -August 202084new eligibility
workers have
been hired since
May 2020.
38% attrition rate
to date compared
to 25 –30% pre-
COVID
74% of those who
separated
resigned or were
no shows to
training COVID 19 is also impacting eligibility worker training success.
46
9EHSD CalFresh Report for FHS September 28, 2020
Program Updates
Temporary Waivers, Postponements and Benefit Expansion Due to COVID 19
Emergency CalFresh benefits bring families up to maximum household benefit through September
Interview waivers allowed on some applications expired August 2020
Waiver of the requirement to conduct a face-to-face interview if requested has been extended through
October 2020
Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents work requirements waived through public health emergency
Online EBT purchases through Amazon and Walmart
Over 54,000 Contra Costa families received Pandemic-EBT cards supporting households who lost access to free
or reduced price school meals between March and June 2020.
SSI and Senior Outreach
IHSS/SSI recipient participation in CalFresh increased by 12% following the mailing of approximately 2,000
flyers in June, July and August. Mailing will continue at a rate of 500 a month through December 2020
Community outreach remains on hold due to COVID 19
47
10EHSD CalFresh Report for FHS September 28, 2020
Medi-Cal recipient mailer in partnership with the Food Bank of Contra Costa
and Solano
Program reach research to identify outreach targets post-COVID
IHSS recipient mailers continue through December 2020
Next Steps
48
11EHSD CalFresh Report for FHS September 28, 2020
Program Comparison
Number of CalFresh
Individuals served in
August 2020:
77,362
Number of Medi-Cal
Individuals served in
August 2020:
257,369
Number of CalWORKs
Individuals served in
August 2020:
13,980
31,655
30,555
31,033
42,921
0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 30,000 35,000 40,000 45,000 50,000
Average 2017
Average 2018
Average 2019
Current Caseload August 2020
CalFresh Caseload Averages 2017 –2019 and Current Caseload August 2020
125,906124,169121,132 133,725
114,000 116,000 118,000 120,000 122,000 124,000 126,000 128,000 130,000 132,000 134,000 136,000
Average 2017
Average 2018
Avergae 2019
Current Caseload August 2020
Medi-Cal Caseload Averages 2017-2019 Current Caseload August 2020
7,672
6,964
6,416
6,347
0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 7,000 8,000 9,000
Average 2017
Average 2018
Average 2019
Current Caseload August 2020
CalWORKs Caseload Averages 2017-2019 and Current Caseload August 2020
Source: CalWIN 49
12EHSD CalFresh Report for FHS September 28, 2020
Questions?
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FAMILY AND HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE 6.
Meeting Date:09/28/2020
Subject:Community Services Bureau/Head Start Oversight
Submitted For: David Twa, County Administrator
Department:County Administrator
Referral No.: FHS #78
Referral Name: Community Services Bureau/Head Start Oversight
Presenter: Katharine Mason, Community Services
Director
Contact: Katharine Mason (925)
681-6300
Referral History:
Oversight of the Community Services Bureau and Head Start programs was originally referred to
the Family and Human Services Committee on March 1, 2005. Since that time the program has
provided the Committee with annual updates on the programs and services provided. The last
report was received by the FHS Committee on October 22, 2018.
Referral Update:
Please see the attached report from the Employment and Human Services Department
Community Services Bureau regarding its program accomplishments, special initiatives and
anticipated challenges.
Recommendation(s)/Next Step(s):
ACCEPT the report from the Employment and Human Services Department on the oversight and
activities of the Community Services Bureau.
Fiscal Impact (if any):
There is no fiscal impact.
Attachments
Community Services Bureau Report - September 2020
51
CSB Report to FHS for 9.28.20 Page 1
40 Douglas Drive, Martinez, CA 94553 • (925) 608 5000 • Fax (925) 608-9748 • www.ehsd.org
To: Family and Human Services Committee
Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors
Date: September 28, 2020
From: Kathy Gallagher, EHSD Director
Katharine Mason, Interim Director Community Services
Bureau
Subject: FHS Referral #78 Community Services Bureau/Head Start Oversight with Staffing Report
I. Overview:
Please accept this annual update for the Employment and Human Services Department,
Community Services Bureau (CSB). This memo will highlight key COVID-19 response
activities, and topics and challenges that continue as areas of focus in the year to come.
II. COVID-19 Response Key Highlights:
• CSB provided Emergency Childcare for first responders and essential workers from
April through end of June (11 weeks), serving 40 children and their families. An
additional 218 children of essential workers were placed in community childcare with
State-funded vouchers. These families will have first priority to enroll into an ongoing
(non-emergency) subsidized Alternative Payment Program (CAPP).
• Over 1000 children enrolled in Head Start, Early Head Start and State Child
Development programs received distance-learning March to present. Using a multi-
layered approach, all families receive a monthly calendar of activities, detailed
educational activities three times a week, regular calls and zoom meetings to maintain
home-school connection, lessons and activities via CSB’s YouTube channel, and “grab
& go” material packets.
• CSB, the Head Start Delegate Agency, and several childcare partners re-opened regular
childcare services in July with limited in-class capacity and strict infection control
measures in accordance with federal, state and local guidelines specific to this
pandemic. However, due to the corresponding surge in cases in the community and
M E M O R A N D U M
Kathy Gallagher, Director
52
CSB Report to FHS for 9.28.20 Page 2
the resulting need to close nine classrooms cohorts in a two-week period, CSB closed
operation in August. During this four-week period management work closely with
stakeholders, newly received State mandates, and the Health Services Department to
refine protocols and enhance safety precautions, and in some cases at levels above
suggested guidelines for the benefit of staff and children. At this time all CSB, Delegate
Agency and childcare partner programs are open for in-class services except a few
Family Childcare providers and two school-based centers due to campus closure.
• New COVID-19 CARES Act funding to the Bureau totaling $4,402,517
• These funds are being used in a variety of ways where stipulated by the specific
funder. Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) funds are directed by the Economic
Opportunity Council to support the community with stable housing, mental health
services and food security. Head Start and Early Head Start funds are used to support
facility modifications, purchase of PPEs and cleaning supplies, conduct specialized
cleaning, and purchase of materials, supplies and equipment used for distance-
learning and on-site services. CAPP funds are supporting extended childcare services
for essential workers, up to five months as needed. Low-income Home Energy
Assistance (LiHEAP) funds are used to expand services, with priority to those impacted
53
CSB Report to FHS for 9.28.20 Page 3
by unemployment and Vulnerable Populations defined as elderly individuals, disabled
individuals or children age five and under.
• To support enrolled families, the Comprehensive Services Team re-tooled their
approach and developed new strategies and resources to meet families’ needs based
on data collected from a newly established Family Resources Hotline and from survey
responses. The Family Support Hotline showed the highest needs were in rental
assistance, food resources and diapers.
The survey showed that families were unaware that schools were offering free
breakfast and lunch to all children and their siblings.
Diapers Food
Access
Financial
Assistance Childcare Health/
Insurance Other
Series1 25 20 9 2 0 9
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
Number of FamiliesAxis Title
Family Needs
54
CSB Report to FHS for 9.28.20 Page 4
• In response, a weekly “grab & go” distribution of diapers, wipes and formula was
implemented along with a resource blast on text messaging, emailing, and Facebook
of school-based and community food distribution sites. Phone call follow up was made
to ensure the families were getting their needs met, averaging 245 calls per day. Use
of technology has been maximized by greater use of Facebook and conducting monthly
parent meetings and Policy Council meetings via Zoom. A survey on communication
preferences revealed that phone calls were the first preference followed by Facebook.
The survey also revealed that 72% of parents were not aware of the CSB YouTube
Channel that has abundance content for distance learning, healthy cooking, and story
time. By virtue of survey, they are now better informed.
• Like all other County buildings, CSB’s offices and centers have been equipped with
distance markers, postings and front desk barriers where necessary. Childcare centers
have additional precautions in place due to the increased risk involved in congregate
care. In alignment with federal, state and local guidance, these precautions include
health-screening checks for all staff and children upon arrival, strict maintenance of
small stable cohorts of staff and children that do not co-mingle with other cohorts, and
additional PPEs such as smocks and face shields for teaching staff.
• To support staff morale and well-being CSB significantly increased wellness activities
and information for staff. Examples include: twice weekly wellness emails focused on
mental health and holistic wellness, trauma-focused survey to identify staff needs and
areas of concern, and EAP presentation to managers/supervisors and facilitated group
discussions with staff in need.
III. Ongoing Challenges:
• At this time in-class services and cohort sizes are limited as required by local Health
Department and Community Care Licensing. As a result, CSB and its childcare partners
are able to serve 48% of enrolled children in-class, while the remaining children
continue to receive distance learning services as described above. CSB is closely
monitoring any changes in these requirements so that in-class services can be
expanded as soon as permissible and safe.
• Teaching staffing shortage: CSB continues to hover at a 10% shortage in our teaching
positions, primarily in positions working with infants and toddlers and the Associate
Teacher classification, as well as Teacher Assistant Trainees and Food Service
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CSB Report to FHS for 9.28.20 Page 5
Transporters. The key reasons for the shortage remain the same as presented in
October 2018:
~ High cost of living in the Bay Area. Many of our staff struggle to make ends meet.
~ Staff migration: Our greatest staffing shortage is in West County. Staff are moving
out of the county or farther east.
~ Transitional Kindergarten and other subsidized programs in the area.
~ Nation-wide shortage: programs throughout the state/ nation are experiencing
teacher staffing shortages.
IV. Staffing Issues – Successful Outcome:
• March 2020 Human Resources completed the Salary Study requested by this
committee. Eight classifications were recommended for varying levels of salary
increases to bring wages up to livable and competitive levels: Teacher Assistant
Trainee, Child Nutrition Food Service Transporter, Community Services Building
Services Worker, Associate Teacher, Infant-Toddler (IT) Associate Teacher, and Child
Nutrition Worker I, II and III.
Class Title CCC
Salary Mean Median
CCC %
above/below
mean
CCC%
above/below
median
Teacher
Assistant
Trainee $2,484 $3,081 $3,081 -24.03% -24.03%
Child Nutrition
Worker I-
Project $2,738.94 $3,465 $3,828 -26.51% -39.77%
Child Nutrition
Food Service
Transporter-
Project $2,738.94 $3,334 $3,581 -21.73% -30.74%
Community
Services
Building
Services
Worker-Project $2,897.60 $3,757 $4,143 -29.67% -42.98%
Child Nutrition
Worker II-
Project $2,990.87 $4,010 $4,010 -34.06% -34.06%
Associate
Teacher $3,023 $3,216 $3,291 -6.38% -8.87%
IT Associate
Teacher $3,023 $3,072 $3,006 -1.62% 0.58%
56
CSB Report to FHS for 9.28.20 Page 6
• CSB is in the process of implementing the recommended increases and has secured
Quality Improvement (QI) funds from Office of Head Start to support salary
increases.
V. Moving Forward:
• Replacing CSB’s central kitchen: We have secured a space at 303 41st Street in
Richmond. The building will require a seismic retrofit before the kitchen is
constructed. The construction drawings for the project started in August 2020
and include structural work such as a new roof diaphragm, wall supports and new
openings for the entry points. In addition, this make-ready phase includes a fire
sprinkler system, and in-floor utility work. Construction is expected to begin in
October 2020 and will start with demolition of the existing interior. Concurrently, the
kitchen build-out construction drawings are underway. The project’s tenant
improvement phase includes new interior walls, new plumbing, gas and electrical
utilities, remodel of an interior ramp, new HVAC equipment, and new exterior ADA
Child Nutrition
Worker III-
Project $3,231.02 $4,012 $3,989 -24.18% -23.46%
Teacher $4,073 $3,859 $3,895 5.25% 4.38%
IT Teacher $4,073 $3,695 $3,680 9.27% 9.65%
Master Teacher $4,327 $4,382 $4,382 -1.27% -1.27%
IT Master
Teacher $4,327 $4,382 $4,382 -1.27% -1.27%
PROGRAMS
QUALITY
IMPROVEMENT
(QI)
EHS-CCP $104,540
Head Start $359,366
Early Head Start $113,826
Total QI Funding $577,732
First Baptist Head Start $ (47,181)
QI Funding available $530,551
Total Budget for Teacher Salary Increase $ 651,633
Shortage covered by Base Grant $ (121,082)
57
CSB Report to FHS for 9.28.20 Page 7
ramps and parking. The kitchen construction will start in April 2021 and includes
kitchen appliances, office/cubicles spaces and bathroom upgrades.
• Continued investment in our staff:
~ Growing our own through Teacher Apprentice and LINKED programs in
partnership with Contra Costa and Diablo Valley Colleges.
~ Advocating for national, state and local investment in the workforce.
~ Marketing and advertising in new and innovative ways.
~ Retention strategies that focus on staff competencies, trauma informed practice,
staff wellness, reflective supervision and practice and recognition programs.
• State review year: We anticipate a Contract Monitoring Review by California
Department of Education (CDE) sometime in 2020-2021 program year, held over from
2019-2020 due to pandemic. The Contract Monitoring Review consists of family data
file review, classroom observations, attendance records, child portfolios, inventory
records, site licensure and staff development program.
• We continue to be the largest high quality childcare provider in the county.
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