On July 4, 2025, San Francisco County officials convened to discuss critical amendments to existing agreements aimed at enhancing community services, particularly in mental health and vocational rehabilitation. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges and strategies in addressing staffing shortages and service delivery in the wake of the pandemic.

A significant focus was on a $1.2 million annual program that supports mental health services, which is partially funded by the county's general fund. The proposed amendment seeks to extend the agreement through 2027, reflecting a commitment to maintaining essential services despite previous performance dips attributed to staffing vacancies and reduced referrals from the human services agency. Officials noted that while there was a decline in referrals during the pandemic, recent data indicates a recovery in service delivery, with agencies now on track to meet their fiscal year goals.

David Chan, CEO of A Better Way, a key service provider, addressed the staffing challenges faced by the organization. He acknowledged that while they have made progress in filling positions, particularly in the outpatient program, there remains a critical need for family partners—individuals with lived experience who can support families navigating mental health and child welfare systems. Chan emphasized the importance of retaining skilled staff amid competition from larger healthcare providers, such as Kaiser, and outlined initiatives aimed at improving staff retention and training.

The meeting also covered a resolution to amend an agreement with Richmond Area Multi Services, increasing funding to approximately $40.8 million to support vocational rehabilitation and employment training programs. These programs are designed to provide job readiness and support for individuals receiving behavioral health treatment, with a focus on integrating them into the workforce. The outcomes from the previous fiscal year showed that all programs met their performance objectives, underscoring their effectiveness in enhancing clients' independence and recovery.

As the meeting concluded, officials expressed optimism about the future of these programs, recognizing the ongoing challenges but also the strides made in service delivery and staffing. The discussions underscored the county's commitment to addressing the needs of its most vulnerable populations while navigating the complexities of post-pandemic recovery. The next steps involve continued monitoring of staffing levels and service effectiveness, ensuring that the community's needs are met as the agreements move forward.