Torene Schwab

The meeting marked the inaugural session of the IHSSA Statewide Authority, established as part of the In-home Supportive Services Program integration effort following the Continuum of Care integration. Key discussions focused on establishing the organizational structure, considering and adopting bylaws, and covering necessary organizational housekeeping. Legal guidance was provided regarding operating requirements under Robert's Rules of Order and the Bagley-Keehn Open Meeting Act, including public comment procedures and voting requirements. A transition report detailed administrative and operational support responsibilities being transferred from the Department of Social Services to the Authority. The timeline for the transition of collective bargaining responsibilities from local agreements to the Statewide Authority, contingent on county enrollment completion in the CCI program, was reviewed, noting San Mateo County's transition effective February 23, 2015.

This strategic plan for the California Farm to Child and Adult Care Food Program Initiative outlines goals and objectives for the period of January 2025 to December 2027. It aims to establish, engage, and expand the initiative by increasing access for CACFP Operators, enhancing awareness and knowledge among operators and community partners, and advancing state systems and partnerships. The plan is guided by core values of access, equity, and inclusion, with a vision to empower operators to implement sustainable Farm to CACFP activities that support the health and well-being of all Californians, benefiting participants, local farmers, and communities.

This strategic plan outlines the California Farm to CACFP Initiative's workplan, aiming to advance the State-level Farm to CACFP Initiative and increase access to healthy environments and local foods for young children. Key strategic drivers include building programmatic capacity by increasing access to resources, professional development, and networking opportunities, and strengthening key collaborations among diverse stakeholders at State, Tribal, and local levels. The plan incorporates Policy, System, and Environmental Change (PSEC) targets and an equity focus, aiming to increase Farm to CACFP knowledge, integrate local and culturally appropriate foods, support gardens, and reduce barriers to equitable access to meals and resources.

The meeting addressed updates on refugee health programs, the Governor's Office initiatives, and the State Refugee Coordinator's activities, including the impact of federal actions on resettlement agencies and the rollout of the Afghan and Ukrainian Newcomer Support Programs. The council discussed funding for refugee support programs, legal services for immigrants, and the role of a consulting agency supporting newcomers. The SAC approved updates to its bylaws, established standing committees, and reviewed recommendations for strengthening the implementation of state-funded refugee support programs. The meeting also included a public question and answer session, addressing concerns about the future of services for refugees amid federal funding cuts.

The meeting included updates from GuideHouse on the Newcomer Community Engagement and Compensation Pilot Program (NCECP), designed to engage refugee community partners. The Governor's Office provided updates on immigration enforcement and the state's response. Discussions covered budget cuts for refugee mental health and health services, PRM R&P agreements, Afghan Support Centers, and the Disaster Services Project (DSP). An election was held for a public member seat, and nominations and elections took place for the new Chair and Vice Chair. The council also strategized for the future of refugee services, including resilient infrastructure and funding.