21. Special Programs/Institutions

Transcription

1 General Assistance Handbook page This chapter describes policy for the following: Residential Care Homes (RCH) Alliance for Community Care Drug Rehabilitation Program Alcohol Rehabilitation Program 21.1 Residential Care Homes Residential Care Homes (RCH) are facilities that are licensed by the State s Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD). These RCH facilities provide room, board, care and supervision to individuals who are living there due to drug addiction, physical disability, mental/emotional illness and/or the individual is developmentally disabled. Unless specifically modified in Section 21.1, all standard General Assistance (GA) intake procedures and eligibility criteria apply to an applicant, or to a resident, of the RCH facility Convicted Drug Felons in RCH Convicted Drug Felons in RCH facilities ARE potentially eligible for General Assistance (GA) provided that they are NOT fleeing to avoid prosecution, or custody and confinement after conviction. Note: Fleeing Felons are NOT eligible for GA. [Refer to Convicted Fleeing Felons, page 6-9.] Update# Revised: 03/16/15

2 page 21-2 General Assistance Handbook Reminder: RCH CASES ARE EXEMPT FROM ELECTRONIC BENEFIT TRANSFER (EBT) PROCEDURES. [Refer to Common-Place Handbook, General Assistance Clients in a State Licensed Board and Care Facility, page ] An applicant who is a resident in the RCH facility, or their duly appointed representative, is required to complete the application process following the normal intake procedures. There are no specialized RCH Eligibility Workers (EW), for an applicant or a resident in an RCH facility Confidentiality The CalWIN Authorization to Release Information (CSF 13) form must be signed by the client BEFORE information can be released to the RCH. The CSF 13 is to be completed when the Housing Verification - Specialized Programs (GA 2A) is submitted. If a signed Authorization to Release Information (SCD 1029) or CSF 13 is not on file; the case CANNOT be discussed with the facility operator EW Responsibilities The EW is responsible for the following: Informing both the client and RCH facility operator of the specific requirements for residents of the RCH. This information includes the fact that these payments are EXEMPT from the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) procedures. Informing the RCH facility operator of the procedures for submitting the General Assistance Mandatory Billing Form (GA 18) instructions are on the reverse side of the form. [Refer to Notification to the RCH Facility, page 21-4, and Aid Payments, page 21-5, for specific requirements.] Residence The following process is used to verify RCH residency: Stage Who Action 1. RCH Operator Completes, signs and dates the GA 2A to verify RCH residency, and Revised: 03/16/15 Update# Provides a copy of the facility s current and valid State license. (Chart page 1 of 2)

3 General Assistance Handbook page 21-3 Stage Who Action 2. EW Documents on the Maintain Case Comments window the name of the facility, including the license number and the expiration date. Sends the current copy of the RCH State license to be scanned into IDM under Benefits F2. Sets Case Alert as a reminder to check for the renewal of the license at EVERY reinvestigation (RRR). NOTE: In some situations, it may be necessary to contact the State Community Care Licensing Division at (408) to verify the status of the license. If the license cannot be verified, the client is not entitled to the RCH payment level. (Chart page 2 of 2) Income Income received in the month of application is considered available and must be used in computing the amount of the client s GA benefits. Reminder: ALL applicants/recipients residing in an RCH MUST apply for SSI. If there is not an SSI application pending, the applicant/recipient is NOT entitled to the RCH payment level Income Reports All recipients of General Assistance (GA) are required to submit a "Quarterly Eligibility/Status Report" (QR 7) in the Submit Month of each quarter. If a staff person assists the client in the completion of the QR 7, BOTH the recipient and the staff person MUST sign the form Employability GA regulations require that any applicant/recipient who is unable to work must provide a Request for Medical Information (SCD 1400) from his/her doctor to verify both the inability to work AND the expected duration of disability. IN ADDITION, if the applicant/recipient resides in an RCH, the doctor MUST state the need for care and supervision in an RCH. Update# Revised: 03/16/15

4 page 21-4 General Assistance Handbook Exception: Applicants/recipients under supervision of the Public Guardian/Administrator s (PG/A) office are eligible for the RCH rate if the PG/A has determined the applicant/recipient requires the care and supervision of an RCH. This MUST be documented on the Maintain Case Comments window. Public Guardian cases are NOT referred to Vocational Services (VS). [Refer to Who is Referred to Vocational Services (VS), page 34-2.] Notification to the RCH Facility Upon receipt of the GA 2A and medical verification, the EW must do the following: Step Action 1. Complete in duplicate a Notification to Facility Operator (GA 18 A). Have copy scanned into the IDM case record under Benefits F Mail the original GA 18 A to the facility. Include five (5) copies of the General Assistance Mandatory Billing Form (GA 18) and a copy of the RCH Proration Chart (GA 18 B) Need Standards For a State-licensed RCH, the MAXIMUM GA amount is the standard amount listed in the Chart Book. Of this amount, the majority is for the care and supervision of the individual and a standard amount to meet the individual s personal needs. If the recipient is in the RCH for LESS than one full month, BOTH the personal needs and the care and supervision amounts are prorated based on the actual number of nights the individual is in the RCH. If the provisions regarding residence, income and employability are not met, the RCH GA need standard does NOT apply. Instead, a room and board budget is calculated based on the appropriate shared housing level for the total number of other persons who share housing with the client. [Refer to Grant Level - Shared with 3 or More Other Persons, page 4-3.] Revised: 03/16/15 Update# 15-02

5 General Assistance Handbook page Aid Payments Budgeting Income The following table provides some guidelines for the EW to consider when processing aid payments If a recipient... Has income, Enters the RCH AFTER receiving his/her GA grant, and notifies his/her EW WITHIN 10 working days, Has entered the RCH and the information is received by the EW AFTER fiscal cutoff, but BEFORE the first of the future month, Then... The income will FIRST be subtracted from the personal needs amount and the remainder is to be subtracted from the care and supervision. The GA grant originally issued is subtracted from the personal needs amount ONLY. The EW will subtract that GA grant amount from the total need standard. NOTE: The RCH facility MUST be notified of this via a telephone call. And the recipient is responsible for meeting that portion of his/her board and care payment. Payment & Billing Procedures Recipients who are residing in a RCH receive their monthly personal needs payment on the first of the month via a GA warrant; THESE PAYMENTS ARE EXEMPT FROM THE ELECTRONIC BENEFIT TRANSFER PROCEDURES (EBT). The RCH facility must submit the GA 18, AFTER the last day of the month for which payment is requested. The EW must receive the completed GA 18, by the 5th of the month. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES IS AN RCH TO BE PAID WITHOUT A COMPLETED GA 18. RCH facilities are paid after the 5th of the following month with the exception if the client leaves the facility. Update# Revised: 03/16/15

6 page 21-6 General Assistance Handbook IN ADDITION, if a QR 7 is due (because it is the client s Submit Month), then a completed QR 7 (with any attached verifications of ALL income received by client, if appropriate), MUST be included. The EW MUST process the QR 7 appropriately, prior to issuing a payment to the RCH. [Refer to GA Policy [105] - Reporting Responsibilities, page 15-1] Note: FAXED copies of the QR 7 and/or the GA 18 are NOT acceptable. If the recipient leaves the RCH facility PRIOR to the end of the month; the facility should complete and submit the GA 18 within ten (10) calendar days of the recipient s leaving the facility. If the bill is a final bill, that information MUST be indicated on the GA 18. Reminder: The GA 18 Form Is The ONLY Acceptable Method Of Billing The General Assistance Program. It must be completed appropriately and submitted by the RCH facility to bill the county. Instructions for completion of the GA 18 are on the reverse side of the form. RCH CASES ARE EXEMPT FROM ELECTRONIC BENEFIT TRANSFER (EBT) PROCEDURES. [Refer to Common-Place Handbook, Cash Programs, page 16-2 and/or Cash Programs, page 16-2 and General Assistance Clients in a State Licensed Board and Care Facility, page ] Required Forms Form CSF 13 or SCD 1029 GA 2A Action CalWIN Authorization to Release Information (CSF 13) or shelf stock Authorization to Release Information (SCD 1029) form must be sent with GA 2A in order to released any information to the RCH. A copy MUST be sent to be scanned into IDM. Housing Verification - Specialized Programs (GA 2A) this form is to: Verify address and type of facility the tenant is living in. Request a current State license. Completed each time the client changes RCH facilities and at each RRR and send a copy to be scanned into IDM. Submit with forms CSF 13 or SCD (Chart page 1 of 2) Revised: 03/16/15 Update# 15-02

7 General Assistance Handbook page 21-7 Form GA 18 Action General Assistance Mandatory Billing Form (GA 18) instructions are on the reverse of the GA 18 and: Submitted with Notification to Facility Operator (GA 18A). Provide several copies of the GA 18 (at least 5). This form is the only acceptable method of billing the General Assistance Program. The form is to be submitted by the RCH after the last day of the calendar month for which they are billing and scanned in IDM If the client leaves the facility, the RCH facility can immediately submit the GA 18 indicating final bill. GA 18A Notification to Facility Operator (GA 18A) this is an introduction letter with vital information and instructions and to be: Completed in duplicate Completed each time the client changes RCH facilities and scanned into IDM. Submitted with GA 18 send several (at least 5) copies and RCH Prorated Chart (GA 18B). GA 18B RCH Prorated Chart (GA 18B) must be submitted with GA 18A. The purpose of this form is for the RCH facility to calculate a partial month payment. (Chart page 2 of 2) Payment Procedures The EW must: Step Action 1. Complete the following information in the "County Use Only" section at the bottom of the GA 18: Date the GA 18 was received. Date the GA 18 was paid, if appropriate. Amount paid, if appropriate. EW s worker number. (Chart page 1 of 2) Update# Revised: 03/16/15

8 page 21-8 General Assistance Handbook Step Action 2. Review the GA 18 and insure the following: Form has been completed appropriately. The amount being billed is correct. Return the GA 18 if it is incorrect, incomplete or unsigned. Notate the reason for return on the GA 18. Have copy of the notated returned GA 18 scanned into the IDM case record Benefits F-2. NOTE: When the CORRECTED GA 18 is received and paid; a copy must be scanned into the IDM case record Benefits F-4. (Chart page 2 of 2) Split Payment for RCH Facilities The split payment process is to be used during Wrap-Up and Authorization in order to make the appropriate payments to the RCH facility, and the personal needs payment to the client. Reminder: RCH CASES ARE EXEMPT FROM ELECTRONIC BENEFIT TRANSFER (EBT) PROCEDURES. [Refer to Common-Place Handbook, Cash Programs, page 16-2 and/or Cash Programs, page 16-2 and General Assistance Clients in a State Licensed Board and Care Facility, page ] CalWIN Entries The CalWIN system will determine the appropriate RCH Aid-Type based on entries made by the EW during Data Collections, Wrap-Up and the initiation of EDBC. [Refer to Update : General Assistance - Process for Residential Care Home (RCH) Payment and Emergency.] Revised: 03/16/15 Update# 15-02

9 General Assistance Handbook page Change in Residence When a change of residence occurs, recipients must notify their EW within ten working days. If a Recipient... Leaves the RCH and does not contact the EW, Notifies the EW within 10 working days that she/he has moved to another RCH, Then the EW MUST... Record information appropriately in the Data Collections subsystem. Run EDBC and perform Authorization, in order to Discontinue GA at the end of the month. End Dates the RCH facility moved from as follows: Update case record appropriately in Data Collections. Complete the Collect Board and Care Detail window to record the Effective End Date field with the date the client moved from the facility taken from the GA 18 Final Bill. The facility payment is prorated by CalWIN based on the Effective End Date entered. Note: The GA 18 indicates the number of nights the client actually spent in the RCH facility be sure this coincides with the Effective End Dates entered. Complete the Collect Board and Care Detail window to add the new RCH facility and the Effective Began Date. Make payment within 10 working days from the date the new RCH facility sends in the GA 18 the following month (never paid in current month) Complete the Split Payment process during Wrap-Up and Authorization in the Modify Authorization Detail window in order to make the appropriate payments to the RCH facility. Put RCH future benefit on hold by Selecting the CalWIN Search for Issuance window. Click the [Release/Hold] button for future RCH payment. Once the [Release/Hold] button is clicked on the Search for Issuance Status window reappears with the Search Results field showing Hold in the Issuance Status tab. For Intake: a current month RCH Payment: Select the CalWIN Search for Issuance window. Click the [Issuance Detail] button. The Maintain Issuance Detail window appears. Click on the Change Status tab and go to the Issuance Status field Select See Worker from the drop down field (the EW will need the EW Supervisor to process this action.) Update# Revised: 03/16/15

10 page General Assistance Handbook If a Recipient... Then the EW MUST... For Continuing: Select the CalWIN Search For Issuance window Click the [Release/Hold] button. Note: for the Current month the [Release/Hold] button will not be enabled (it will be grayed out.) Select the Pending future month benefits the [Release/Hold] button will now be enabled. Once the [Release/Hold] button is check on the Search for Issuance Status window reappears with the Search Results field showing Hold in the Issuance Status tab. Remember that a new SCD 1400 is not required if the existing one is still valid. Document actions taken in CalWIN Maintain Case Comments window. Ensure when RCH facilities charge a different amount than the allowed rate of $901, the actual amount that the facility is charging must be entered in the Negotiated Rate field of the Collect Board and Care Detail window. CalWIN will prorate the days to be paid to that facility based on the Admission and Discharge Dates entered. Moves to independent living, Request all required forms for standard housing verification. Ensure that a valid SCD 1400 is on file for all Unemployable recipients, and Refer all Employable recipients to VS, as appropriate. NOTE: Process a CalFresh application, if appropriate CalFresh Eligibility Residents of RCHs are NOT eligible for, or entitled to receive CalFresh Medi-Cal Eligibility Residents of RCHs are not AUTOMATICALLY eligible for Medi-Cal. However, it is the EW s responsibility to explore the client s eligibility for Medi-Cal. [Refer to Medi-Cal Handbook, Applications, page 5-1.] Revised: 03/16/15 Update# 15-02

11 General Assistance Handbook page ALLIANCE for Community Care For purposes of Section , ALLIANCE for Community Care will apply only to the programs/facilities listed in this section. ALLIANCE for Community Care is housed and centrally operates from 86 S. 14th St., San Jose, CA 95112, phone number (408) They offer a comprehensive array of treatment, rehabilitation and housing programs and services to people of all ages recovering from psychiatric disabilities. ALLIANCE for Community Care facilities authorized to participate in the GA Program are: Crossroads 438 N. White Rd. San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) Goveia/Zeller 436 N. White Road San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) Grant Road 1429 Grant Road Mountain View, CA Fax: (650) Sub Acute Residential Treatment Unit (SART) Jacob Center 230 N. Morrison St. San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) Central Intake Phone: (408) Fax: (408) Average Stay: 40 days South County Calle Enrique #1 Morgan Hill, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) The Alameda 2001 The Alameda San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax (408) Assessment/Customer Phone: (408) Fax: (408) Finance Fax: (408) Update# Revised: 03/16/15

12 page ISP 86 S. 14th Street San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) Litteral House 96 S. 14th St. San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) Average Stay: 3-6 months General Assistance Handbook Youth & Family Services 438 N. White Rd. San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) Upstairs Fax: (408) Average Stay: 6-12 months Zoe House 27 S. 11th St. San Jose, CA Phone: Average Stay: 2 years Application Process Confidentiality Social Services Agency (SSA) staff are authorized to release information to ALLIANCE for Community Care staff regarding an individual s GA eligibility; and ALLIANCE for Community Care staff are authorized to release information to SSA staff. Responsibilities of ALLIANCE for Community Care Staff Staff at the authorized facilities will submit the following completed forms to the GA Receptionist for each applicant that may be potentially eligible for GA: Identification and Intake Record (SCD 41). Application For Cash Aid, CalFresh, And/Or Medi-Cal/State CMSP (SAWS 1). Application for General Assistance (GA 1) and cover letter. The above forms must be submitted even though the case may already be in an active status. Reminder: All forms must be date stamped when received. The date that is stamped on the forms is considered to be the initial aid payment date. SSA will provide the authorized facilities with all the necessary application forms. Revised: 03/16/15 Update# 15-02

13 General Assistance Handbook page Responsibilities of Eligibility Staff If there is NOT an open GA case, then the Intake EW will process the application according to the regular intake processes. If there is an open GA case, then the Continuing EW is responsible to take the appropriate action, including but not limited to the following: Refer the client to Social Security to apply for SSI using the SCD 169. Complete all appropriate entries in the Data Collection and Wrap-Up subsystems to establish the case. Run EDBC to compute the new GA grant amount, and Send the appropriate Approval NOA to notify the RCH facility of the GA need standard. When the application from the RCH facility is received too late to prevent the recipient s next month's GA payment from going out; the amount of the GA grant payment must be subtracted from an individual s personal needs and the RCH rate. Example: The GA grant amount of $ has already been sent out for the month of January. Client entered the RCH facility on December 15th, and SSA received the application from RCH on December 31st. RCH rate is $ per month and client s personal needs is $28.00 per month. The EW will compute the amount that will be paid to the RCH facility as follows: January 1st $ Original GA grant paid $ Prorated RCH amount (for 16 days) Prorated Personal Needs $ Total -$ Original GA grant $ Total Amount to be paid to the RCH Facility for December. Update# Revised: 03/16/15

14 page The Mental Rehabilitation facility will be notified. General Assistance Handbook If the applicant is serving a sanction and was hospitalized or was a resident in a Mental Rehabilitation facility, at the time of the noncooperation with VS, the sanction will be rescinded. The rescission MUST be cleared through VS. Responsibilities of Applicant All applicants who are in an authorized facility will be required to apply for SSI. [Refer to GA Handbook Interim Assistance Reimbursement Program (IAR)/SSI Advocacy, page 33-1.] Staff at the facility will help the applicant/recipient with the different steps in the process. If potential eligibility exists, applicants who are in an authorized facility are required to apply for State Disability Insurance (SDI) or any other benefit to which they may be entitled to receive. A denial letter is required as verification that the applicant has applied for all benefits that he or she may be eligible for Identification A cover letter from the Mental Rehabilitation program is acceptable evidence of a client's identity. This cover letter MUST include height, weight, hair color, eye color, Social Security number and date of birth. A copy of the applicant's Social Security card or completed MC 194 is required Residence Applicants who are currently residing in an authorized facility are considered to be residents of Santa Clara County UNLESS, prior to their admission, they resided in another county, and the SOLE reason for their presence in Santa Clara County is for participation in that program. If the applicant/recipient was hospitalized prior to his/her admission to the facility, and if prior to his/her hospitalization his/her residence was in another county, he/she is NOT considered to be a resident of Santa Clara County. Note: The applicant's statement regarding the above, in conjunction with his/her presence in the facility, will be acceptable evidence of Santa Clara County residence. Revised: 03/16/15 Update# 15-02

15 General Assistance Handbook page Citizenship/Noncitizen [Refer to GA Handbook Citizenship/Noncitizen/Sponsored Noncitizens, page 19-1.] Same regulations apply Property [Refer to GA Handbook Property, page ] Personal Property If the applicant has net personal property which exceeds the $500 limit, he/she must be responsible for payment to the RCH facility. Verification indicating that payment has been made to the RCH facility, and that applicant s property is within the necessary limits is required. Note: If the applicant pays his/her own bill, then the GA payment starts, the day after the time period covered by the applicant's payment (provided the applicant is otherwise eligible). The Application for General Assistance (GA 1) date is the application date. Real Property Same requirements apply. [Refer to GA Handbook Property, page 16-1.] Income Staff at the facility will provide SSA with a written statement if it is believed that there is no income (as stated by the applicant). If there is no evidence to the contrary, that statement will be acceptable. If the exact amount of income cannot be verified, and it has been requested by the staff at the mental rehabilitation facility, then a very high estimate can be used for the initial determination of eligibility. Note: The EW must use prudent judgment when calculating the estimated income. Update# Revised: 03/16/15

16 page Income Reports General Assistance Handbook Income reports are to be completed by each resident of an RCH facility. If income reports are completed (either partially or totally) by a staff person at the facility; BOTH the staff person and the client MUST sign the income report. [Refer to QR 7 Processing, page 15-1 for specific requirements.] Employability Status Unless specifically modified in this section, all applicants/recipients residing at an authorized mental rehabilitation facility, will be processed following the standard GA program procedures. [Refer to Vocational Services, page 34-1.] A good cause determination is not necessary if an applicant quit a job within 30 days of the application due to medical, mental or emotional problems. Good cause exists and written verification is not required Need Standards For the authorized RCH facilities, the maximum GA grant amount is the standard listed in the Chart Book. Of this amount, the majority is for care and supervision and a standard amount is to meet the recipient s personal needs. If the recipient is in the facility for less than a full month, the care and supervision rate and the personal needs are prorated based on the number of days the client is in the facility. [Refer to General Assistance Charts, page 4-1.] Aid Payments The following table provides some guidelines for the EW to utilize when processing aid payments for clients residing in an RCH facility: If a recipient... Is admitted, transferred or discharged, Is hospitalized, Then... The RCH facility staff will inform the EW via telephone call or by reporting the information on the QR 7. The EW will pay the facility for the period of his/her hospitalization provided: The recipient returns to the facility during the same month he/she was hospitalized, AND The facility has reserved a bed for the recipient during his/her absence. Revised: 03/16/15 Update# 15-02

17 General Assistance Handbook page If a recipient... Leaves the facility (either overnight or for the weekend), Then... SSA will pay the facility for the period of his/her absence provided: The recipient returns to the facility, and The facility has reserved a bed for the recipient during his/her absence, and The absence was for therapeutic reasons. Budgeting Income If the recipient has income, the income will first be subtracted from the personal needs amount and then from the care and supervision amount. The GA grant will be prorated from the date the application is received/date stamped by SSA. Payment Procedures The following table is NOT all inclusive, but may be used by the EW as a guide for processing payments to the RCH facilities: Stage Who Action 1. EW Enters all required information to set up the case. Completes the Collect Board and Care Detail window appropriately, and Performs the "Split Payment" process to pay the RCH facility and to pay the client s Personal Needs. 2. RCH Facility Provides the following information on the GA 18: Case number. Birth date and Social Security Number. Eligibility Worker s Number. Name of the facility. Completes the GA 18 and bills Social Services Agency by the 10th day of the month or the date the recipient is discharged from the facility. Indicates on the GA 18 if this is a "final" billing. Update# Revised: 03/16/15

18 page General Assistance Handbook Stage Who Action 3. EW Pays the bill within 10 working days of its receipt, provided ALL eligibility factors have been cleared. Returns all bills to the RCH if Social Services Agency has not received a date stamped application packet. NOTE: If a billing is for an incorrect amount, Social Services Agency will pay the correct amount, and notify the RCH facility of their error in computation CalWIN Entries EW will follow normal intake procedures for setting-up RCH cases. Entries of data into CalWIN for the RCH cases include, but are NOT limited to the following: CalWIN will establish the correct Aid-Code for the RCH cases after all necessary data has been entered and EW initiates EDBC. CalWIN determines the Board & Care (RCH) rate by completing the Board & Care Detail window from the Data Collection heading in the Action group box. The case is established with the recipient as the payee. Note: The address of the facility that the recipient is residing in must be recorded on the Collect Individual Address window. The RCH payments must be put on hold in the Search for Issuance Status window for current month benefits use the Change Status tab use the See Worker form the drop down filed of the Issuance Status field (the actions can only be done by the EW Supervisor.) For future month benefits the EW can use the Search for Issuance Status window by clicking on the [Release/Hold] button. All bills will be paid to the facility with the correct board and care amount. Reminder: All authorized RCH facilities must be entered into the CalWIN as a Provider before a payment can be issued to them. Revised: 03/16/15 Update# 15-02

19 General Assistance Handbook page Change in Residence Transfer Between Authorized Facilities If a recipient transfers between authorized facilities, the RCH facility staff person will inform the EW via a telephone call, and the information must also be reported on the QR 7. Recipient Leaves Authorized Facility GA Discontinued When a recipient leaves an authorized facility and there is NO contact from the client, the EW MUST discontinue the case. A seven (7) day notice is NOT require, however, an appropriate Notice of Action must be sent or Notice for Loss of Contact/Whereabouts Unknown (GA 098). Recipient Leaves Authorized Facility GA Continues When a recipient leaves an authorized facility and contract the EW, the EW updates the recipient s case; and runs EDBC to establish a change in Aid-Code. Follow the standard GA rules and regulations. [Refer to Change in Residence, page 21-9.] Ensure the GA grant amount is accurate based on GA need standards. Subtract any personal needs money already issued for the current month; Prorate the balance from the date the client first notifies the EW of a new address. (If independent living is arranged with EW prior to leaving rehabilitation facility, the GA grant will be prorated from the day after discharge). Note: Proper identification is necessary for any recipient leaving an authorized facility. [Refer to Identification (ID) Verifications, page 10-1.] If identification, as listed in Section 10 is not available, the RCH cover letter will be considered an acceptable form of identification. Update# Revised: 03/16/15

20 page Medi-Cal/CalFresh Eligibility Medi-Cal General Assistance Handbook Residents of RCH facilities are not AUTOMATICALLY eligible for Medi-Cal. However, it is the EW s responsibility to explore the client s eligibility for Medi-Cal. This includes making a referral to the State Programs - Disability Determination Service Division (SP-DDSD). [Refer to DDSD Disability Referral Criteria, page 27-1.] CalFresh (Food Stamps) Applicants/recipients in a mental rehabilitation facilities are NOT eligible for, or entitled to CalFresh Drug Rehabilitation Program The GA Drug Voucher Program was eliminated effective 6/30/93. The funding for this program was transferred to the Bureau of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse. All room, board, care and supervision expenses incurred by residents of state-licensed facilities (e.g. Pathway) are paid for by the Bureau of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse. Residents of these facilities are NOT eligible for GA because the client s needs are met by the Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Contract Reimbursement Program. These facilities receive federal and state funds through contracts with the County. Exception: If otherwise eligible, residents of Sober Living Environment (SLE) or Transitional Housing Unit (THU) homes may be eligible for GA and/or CalFresh (Food Stamps). Standard General Assistance (GA) intake procedures and eligibility criteria apply. SLE and THU facilities are described below. Revised: 03/16/15 Update# 15-02

21 General Assistance Handbook page Sober Living Environment (SLE) or Transitional Housing Unit (THU) Facilities There are some residential facilities that do not require licensure by Alcohol and Drug Programs (ADP). Cooperative living arrangements (Referred to as Sober Living Environment [SLE] and Transitional Housing Unit [THU], or alcohol and drug free housing) for persons recovering from alcohol and/or drug problems are NOT state-licensed by the State Department of Health. However, some of these facilities are certified for operation by the District Attorney s (DA s) Office, which simply means that they are a court approved residence. Others are court appointed SLE/THU facilities not necessarily DA certified. While sober living environments or alcohol and drug free housing are not required to be licensed by ADP, business permits or clearances may be required by the local cities or counties in which the houses are located. Stay for clients at these SLE/THU facilities could range from three days to three, six or nine months. Clients residing in these facilities are entitled to the GA standard room and board or shared housing level, as appropriate. There are numerous SLE/THU facilities in Santa Clara County that are not certified by the DA. A client my be court appointed to an unlicensed SLE/THU. Therefore, it is possible the Eligibility Workers (EWs) will find that an applicant/recipient is staying at a facility that is not listed in the District Attorney s Certified SLE/THU Facilities, page To determine whether an applicant or recipient is eligible for GA based on the residential facility the client is residing, refer to the following: The screening table [ Screening of Drug and Alcohol Residential Facilities on page 21-24] The housing verification form used, Housing Assistance Verification (GA 31) or "Client s Housing Assistance Statement" (GA 11) or the Housing Verification-Specialized Programs (GA 2A), which ask for the type of facility the applicant/recipient is living in and if the facility is state-licensed. These forms can be found on the Social Services Agency s Intranet under DEBS Forms. Update# Revised: 03/16/15

22 page General Assistance Handbook District Attorney s Certified SLE/THU Facilities Santa Clara County District Attorney s Certified for Operation SLE/THU Facilities CROSSROADS (Men s Facility) P.O. Box 2327 San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) ESCALADE RECOVERY FOUNDATION (Men s Facility) 380 S. 19th Street San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) RAINBOW RECOVERY, INC. (Women & Women with small Children) 4490 Wessex Drive San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) DAY BY DAY (Men s Facility) 144 N 5th Street San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) PRIMARY PURPOSES (Men s Facility) 1659 N. Capitol Avenue, Suite 182. San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) SOLACE SUPPORTING HOUSING (Women with small Children) 77 S. 12th St. San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) VIDA NUEVA (Bilingual Program for Men) 2212 Quimby Road San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) Alcohol Rehabilitation Program An applicant/recipient residing in a Bureau of Alcohol Services (BAS) contract detoxification center, or a contract alcohol recovery home, is NOT eligible to receive GA. Because the applicant/recipients needs will be met by the Bureau of Alcohol and Drug Contract Reimbursement Program. These facilities receive federal and state funds through contracts with the County. BAS has contracted with licensed alcohol recovery homes to participate in a county-wide referral and treatment program. BAS reimburses the recovery home for their actual expenses, and covers all licensed beds in the facility. Revised: 03/16/15 Update# 15-02

23 General Assistance Handbook page Listing of Contracted Alcohol/Drug Recovery Homes SITE NAME AND ADDRESS AMICUS 466 S. Buena Vista Ave San Jose CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) Advent Group Ministries SOUTH VALLEY Home 4305 Arpeggio Avenue San Jose, CA Phone: (408) or (408) Advent Group Ministries GATEWAY Home 1960 Church Avenue San Martin, CA Phone: (408) or (408) HOUSE ON THE HILL 9505 Malech Road San Jose, CA Phone: (408) FAX: (408) NEW LIFE RECOVERY CENTER 782 Park Ave Suite #1 San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) Project Ninety, Inc. - Men-Residential THIRD STREET HOUSE 792 South 3rd St. San Jose, CA Phone: (408) or (605) Support Systems Homes BENY MCKEOWN Center 1281 Flemming Ave San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Advent Group Ministries SUMMIT Home 1200 West Edmundson Avenue Morgan Hill, CA Phone: (408) or (408) Advent Group Ministries SAINT JOHN Home 865 Black Walnut Court Morgan Hill, CA Phone: (408) or (408) HORIZON SERVICES INC. 650 S. Bascom Ave., Suite C San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Fax: (408) MARIPOSA LODGE 9500 Malech Road San Jose, CA Phone: (408) FAX: (408) Pathway Society, Inc. PATHWAY SOCIETY 102 South 11th St. San Jose, CA Phone: (408) or Ext.18 FAX: (408) Project Ninety, Inc.- Women-Residential NINTH STREET HOUSE 561 South 9th St. San Jose, CA Phone: (650) FAX: (650) Support Systems Homes MORRISON TREATMENT CENTER 264 N. Morrison Ave San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Support Systems Homes 12TH ST CENTER 398 S.12th St. San Jose, CA Phone: (408) Update# Revised: 03/16/15

24 page General Assistance Handbook Screening of Drug and Alcohol Residential Facilities If the... Facility is State Licensed, Client is court appointed to a facility and the facility is NOT State Licensed, Client is court appointed to a facility and the facility IS State Licensed, Client is in a DA Certified facility (DA Certified list in Section ) and NOT State Licensed, Client is in a DA Certified facility (DA Certified list in Section ) and the facility IS State Licensed, Client is unemployable and living in a facility that is NOT State licensed, Client is unemployable and living in a facility that IS State licensed, Client is employable and living in a facility that is NOT State licensed, Client is employable and living in a facility that IS State licensed, Then... Resident of this facility is NOT eligible for GA. Review for GA eligibility. Resident of this facility is NOT eligible for GA. Review for GA eligibility. Note: The DA Certified list in Section is not an exclusive list. Resident of this facility is NOT eligible for GA. Review for GA eligibility to determine if the SCD 1400 compliance requirements as described in GA Handbook Chapter 32 have been met. Resident of this facility is NOT eligible for GA. Review for GA eligibility to determine if the client will meet the GA work requirements. Resident of this facility is NOT eligible for GA RCH Facilities Treating Alcoholism An applicant/recipient who resides in an RCH facility providing care for alcoholism (NOT ONE OF THE CONTRACT FACILITIES LISTED IN LISTING OF CONTRACTED ALCOHOL RECOVERY HOMES ABOVE), may be entitled to General Assistance if ALL eligibility requirements are met. [Refer to Listing of Contracted Alcohol/Drug Recovery Homes, page ] Revised: 03/16/15 Update# 15-02

25 General Assistance Handbook page Applicants/recipients qualify for a room and board payment based on the shared housing rate appropriate for the number of other persons living in the facility. Applicant/recipients must be referred to, and cooperate with VS as required by all other employable applicant/recipients. [Refer to Referral to Vocational Services, page ] Applicant/recipients may be eligible for Cal Fresh if the RCH has been certified as an alcoholic rehabilitation facility. [Refer to the CalFresh Handbook Drug/Alcohol Treatment Centers, page 29-2.] Update# Revised: 03/16/15

26 page General Assistance Handbook Revised: 03/16/15 Update# 15-02