San Francisco Sun

San Francisco has launched the Treatment Pathway Initiative to aid individuals with substance use disorders in their recovery efforts. The initiative is a response to the opioid crisis and follows Proposition F, which mandates that those seeking county-funded cash assistance must engage in treatment to continue receiving benefits.

Mayor London N. Breed emphasized the city's dual commitment to compassion and accountability, stating, "We fund a wide range of treatment and recovery services that are helping people every day, but it can be difficult to get everyone to accept the help they so badly need." She added that the initiative aims to ensure individuals receive necessary support while making a positive impact on both their lives and the city.

The San Francisco Human Services Agency (SFHSA) oversees local General Assistance programs under state law. Currently, low-income single adults can receive up to $714 per month through these programs. Unhoused individuals are eligible for $109 monthly assistance if they have been residents for over 30 days, along with guaranteed shelter and meals via the Care Not Cash program. Approximately 20% of CAAP recipients are unhoused.

Trent Rhorer, SFHSA Executive Director, highlighted the goal of aiding those with substance use disorders towards recovery: "This initiative is another tool in the City’s toolkit in assisting people to get the help they need and ultimately save their lives."

Westside Community Services will partner with SFHSA in implementing this community-centered approach by offering treatment support for CAAP clients. They will assess needs, identify suitable treatments, provide ongoing engagement support including transportation assistance, and report client progress monthly.

Cedric Akbar from Westside Community Services noted that this initiative supports individuals at various stages of recovery by providing essential resources and highlighting San Francisco's commitment to enhancing its behavioral health care infrastructure.

The initiative reflects Mayor Breed's dedication to prioritizing treatment for those in crisis while ensuring accountability for those who refuse help. In preparation for its launch, SFHSA collaborated with community stakeholders and various organizations focused on engaging people throughout their recovery journey.