California Governor Gavin Newsom’s flagship mental health initiative, the Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment (CARE) Courts, is facing challenges in Orange County. Launched in September 2022, the program aimed to help homeless individuals with schizophrenia receive necessary treatment. However, nearly two years later, the program has only placed one person on a mandated plan and another dozen on voluntary agreements, with just one person graduating from the program.
The County of Orange has invested at least $9.3 million into the initiative, raising concerns about its cost-effectiveness. Orange County Healthcare Agency Director Veronica Kelley expressed frustration, noting that resources are being diverted from other successful programs to support CARE. Kelley emphasized the importance of voluntary participation, stating that coercion is ineffective in building trust with the mentally ill population.
Despite these challenges, some, like state Senator Tom Umberg, believe the program is a step in the right direction. He highlighted the program’s intent to provide an alternative to homelessness and despair for participants.
The CARE Courts allow judges to direct county healthcare workers to create treatment plans, known as CARE plans, for individuals with schizophrenia. These plans include medical treatment, supportive services, and housing arrangements. However, the program’s effectiveness is under scrutiny, with case records sealed and limited public access to court proceedings.
As reported by Voice of OC, the program’s implementation in Orange County has been voluntary, relying on persistent outreach to engage participants. Social workers like Giovanni Figueroa make repeated attempts to connect with clients, offering support and building trust over time.
KQED highlighted the challenges faced by social workers in reaching out to those in need. Figueroa, who has personal experience with a family member affected by schizophrenia, is committed to helping clients accept care, despite frequent setbacks.
Governor Newsom initially promoted CARE Courts as a transformative tool to address homelessness and provide care before individuals end up in prison. However, the program has yet to deliver the anticipated results in Orange County, prompting discussions about its future and potential improvements.
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