In a recent government meeting, significant resolutions were introduced aimed at addressing pressing social issues, including mental health care and elder abuse.

The first resolution supports the Michelle Alyssa Go Act, championed by Congressman Dan Goldman. This legislation seeks to tackle the critical shortage of inpatient psychiatric beds eligible for federal Medicaid funding by increasing the cap from 16 to 36 beds per facility. This change aims to more than double the capacity for psychiatric care, enhancing access for individuals struggling with mental health and substance use disorders nationwide. The act is named in memory of Michelle Go, a 40-year-old woman who tragically lost her life due to a violent incident involving a homeless man with untreated psychiatric issues. Advocates, including Michelle's father, Justin Go, emphasize the need for systemic reforms in mental health care to prevent similar tragedies.

The second resolution designates June 15th as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in San Francisco. This initiative responds to the alarming rise in scams targeting older adults, which resulted in over $3.4 billion in losses in 2023 alone, marking an 11% increase from the previous year. The resolution highlights the severe consequences of these crimes, including loss of independence and diminished quality of life, particularly within the bilingual Chinese community, where scammers exploit cultural trust. To combat this issue, local organizations, including Adult Protective Services and the San Francisco Police Department, are collaborating to provide training sessions aimed at empowering older adults with the knowledge to recognize and report fraudulent activities.

Both resolutions underscore the urgent need for community awareness and action to address mental health and elder abuse, reflecting a commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable populations in San Francisco.