Title
Authorize the Interim Chief Executive Officer for Natividad Medical Center (NMC) or a designee to execute a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Community Homeless Solutions (“CHS”), a California corporation, for assisting in meeting the direct costs of a Medical Respite Program (“MRP”) for homeless persons in Monterey County for a maximum County obligation of $435,582 retroactive from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2029.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended the Board of Supervisors:
Authorize the Interim Chief Executive Officer for Natividad Medical Center (NMC) or a designee to execute a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Community Homeless Solutions (“CHS”), a California corporation, for assisting in meeting the direct costs of a Medical Respite Program (“MRP”) for homeless persons in Monterey County for a maximum County obligation of $435,582 retroactive from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2029.
SUMMARY:
The Homeless Respite Center provides a safe, supportive environment for individuals experiencing homelessness who are recovering from illness, injury, or hospitalization but are not ill enough to require inpatient hospital care. By offering temporary medical respite, case management, and connections to community resources, the program helps bridge the gap between hospital discharge and stable recovery.
DISCUSSION
Key benefits of the program include:
• Improved Health Outcomes: Individuals have a safe place to rest, recover, and adhere to prescribed treatment plans, resulting in better recovery and fewer medical complications.
• Reduced Hospital Readmissions: Access to medical respite decreases unnecessary emergency department visits and preventable hospital readmissions by ensuring continuity of care after discharge.
• Enhanced Care Coordination: Case managers work collaboratively with hospitals, primary care providers, behavioral health services, and community organizations to coordinate follow-up appointments, medications, and supportive services.
• Connection to Housing and Social Services: Guests receive assistance accessing permanent or transitional housing, public benefits, mental health services, substance use treatment, employment resources, and other essential community supports.
• Cost Savings for the Healthcare System: Medical respite is a cost-effective alternative to prolonged hospital stays or repeated emergency department utilization, helping reduce overall healthcare expenditures.
• Support for Vulnerable Populations: The program addresses the complex medical and social needs of individuals experiencing homelessness, improving quality of life while promoting dignity, stability, and independence.
• Community Impact: By reducing avoidable healthcare utilization and connecting individuals to long-term resources, the respite program contributes to healthier communities and more efficient use of healthcare and social service resources.
Overall, the Homeless Respite Center serves as a critical component of the continuum of care by improving patient outcomes, reducing healthcare costs, and supporting individuals experiencing homelessness as they transition toward recovery, stability, and permanent housing.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The Office of County Counsel has reviewed and approved this MOU as to form, and the Auditor-Controller has reviewed and approved as to payment provisions. The MOU has also been reviewed and approved by NMC’s Finance Committee and by its Board of Trustees on August 7, 2026.
FINANCING:
The cost for this MOU is $435,582 of which $140,924 is included in the FY 2026-27 Adopted Budget. Amounts for remaining years of the agreement will be included in those budgets as appropriate. There is no impact on the General Fund with this action.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC PLAN GOALS SECTION:
This agreement allows for the much-needed continued monetary support to ensure the Respite program is successful. The program provides primary and behavioral healthcare to the homeless and helps break the cycle of homelessness by working with the client to create connections to family and friends, and offers assistance with benefit enrollment, transitional or permanent housing, and job training.
_X_ Well-Being and Quality of Life
__ Sustainable Infrastructure for Present and Future
__ Safe and Resilient Communities
__Diverse and Thriving Economy
__ Administrative
Prepared by: Karen Friedrich, Director of Case Management and Social Services, 783-2556
Approved by: Nancy Buscher, Interim Chief Executive Officer, 783-2560
Attachment(s):
Board Report
Community Homeless Solution Memorandum of Understanding
Attachments on file with the Clerk of the Board