summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
**Amended 2/8/2024 - remove confidential identifiers** On August 1, 2023 at 10: AM, Community Care Licensing (CCL) representatives met with the facility above over Microsoft Teams for the purpose of conducting an Annual Review of the facility's program, needs, population, and overstay logs. In attendance in this meeting were:: -CCL Regional Manager (Regional Manager) Nelson Martinez -Licensing Program Manager (Licensing Program Manager) Carolyn Flynn -Alicia Bernstein (Provider Policy Implementation Unit, Manager - Policy an Technical Assistance Bureau - Systems of Care Branch) -Adele Carlson (Associate Government Program Analyst - Child Protection Policy Unit) -Julie Waters (Child Protection Policy Unit Manager) - Mia Buckner-Preston (Administrator) -Michelle Love (Alameda County SSA-CWS Child Welfare Director) -Melissa Fegurgur (Program Manager) The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the Alameda County Assessment Center Annual Review. Michelle provided an update on the issues between the city of Hayward and the Assessment center and that they are continuing to locate an new location. In the meantime they will be reclaiming more space at their current location so there will be a separate space for the younger youth. At the last Annual Meeting with the County, the County shared they had implemented new strategies to help build capacity in home-based care and STRTPs. • What activities has the County implemented that have increased capacity in home-based care and in STRTPs? (Cont. Lic809c) ·What outreach and/or strategies have been used in 2022 to increase capacity in home-based care and in STRTPs? · How effective have these efforts been in increasing capacity in home-based care and in STRTPs respectfully? The County continues to employ the ongoing capacity increasing strategies as described in the previous annual report. This past year the county added three new county Resource Family Approval (RFA) homes that accept teens. Also, this past year, the county launched the Emergency RFA Teen Homes campaign to increase the number of emergency home based placements available for youth and teens over the age of 13 years. From this effort the county has 4 interested caregivers that we will be working with over the next few months Caregivers that accept teens on an emergency basis will receive a $250 gift card as a sign-up bonus, additional funding up to $3500 in addition to the foster care funding, and placement stabilization, preservation, and training from Misssey and Side-by-Side and therapeutic services offered by West Coast Children's Clinic. In addition, the county will be extending the contract with our Wraparound Services provider to help support the expansion of the current services and staffing. The County, in partnership with Behavioral Health Care Services, developed a contract with Alternative Family Services Foster Family Agency to recruit additional ISFC homes with the ability to provide TFC services. There are currently 4 trained ISFC/TFC homes that can care for teens. The county, provider, and BHC meet on a monthly basis to review vacancies, discuss recruitment efforts and strategies, and identify needed supports. The County continues to contract with REFUGE STRTP for preferred placement STRTP beds. The county increased the funding so the provider has access to funding to increase staffing support when needed to help preserve and stabilize placement. The contract is for eight (8) beds. This support has decreased the number of 14-day removal notices from the facility. The County finalized the emergency bed contract with Lighthouse Mentoring Center STRTP. The contract is for four (4) male teen beds. Placement in the emergency beds reducing the amount of time the youth is at the AC, allows for some youth to bypass the AC, and allows additional time needed for an appropriate, long-term placement to be located. (cont. Lic809c) All previously identified efforts to build capacity are ongoing. We have found that there are many families and providers that are willing to care for younger children and babies and that few are willing to open their homes to teens. The largest number of clients at the AC are older youth and teens ages 13-17 years old and this population of youth are ones who rely on the AC the most and tend to overstay while placement efforts are being made. Despite all of our best efforts we have been unable to adequately increase the number of homes needed for all the youth who need them. It is difficult to get providers to consider the positive aspects of a teen and give them a chance. Due to the growing needs of our youth, providers feel they are placing themselves and their families in harmful situations and anticipate that the youth will develop problems they are ill-equipped to handle. · Has the County been more successful at building capacity for some foster youth populations over others? If so, please identify the populations for which the county has greater challenges. ¨ By how much has the county's capacity increased or decreased in 2022? • What efforts has the County made in reducing the use of the Assessment Center? o Have these efforts been effective in reducing the use of the Assessment Center? Why or why not? The County continues to make every effort to meet the needs of all the youth receiving services at the AC and works diligently to reduce the number of overstays and for the majority of our children, youth, and Nonminor Dependents placement is found within the 72 hour timeframe. The County has been successful in building capacity in the home-based placement options for youth under the age of 12 years, but increasing the number of home-based options for our older youth and teens continues to be a work in progress and at this time there are not enough homes to meet the placement needs of the youth at the AC and we have not seen the success we hoped for in reducing the use of the AC for this age group. The County continues to utilize all strategies previously identified to reduce reliance on the AC especially for our largest client population, youth ages 13-17 years old. However, due to the length of time needed to approve some RFA placements, arrange transportation, schedule and complete medical appointments to address health, mental health, and medication needs, lack of available home-based placements, and length of time needed to complete the STRTP intake process there will be children and youth that will need the services provided by the AC and will remain beyond the 72 hour timeframe despite all efforts to secure timely placements. (Cont, LIC809C) Our strategies include: · Exploring all possible placement options before accepting a child/youth at the AC, which includes arranging pre-placement visits family and potential caregivers. · Bypassing intake at the AC if the child is already in the home of a relative willing to accept placement. · Review of the child's file and placement history, including all family finding efforts · Conducting 48 hour huddles to review placement efforts, explore possible options, and provide support and services to secure placement · Provide Support services, which include transportation assistance to placements, taking youth to Medical Clearances and obtaining medication needed prior to placement, requesting funding and gift cards for items needed, including furniture, clothing, food, hygiene and hair supplies. · Ensuring compliance with updated Emergency RFA placement timeframes that ensures placement occurs within 72 hours of the child arriving at the AC. · Daily In-person meetings with youth at the AC to engage them in their placement plan and support them during CFTs, placement interviews and preparing them to leave the AC and transition to the new placement. · Participation in Child and Family Team meetings (CFT) to identify placements and supports. · Contact and Encourage STRTPs to provide a response regarding acceptance of placement and assist in completing the STRTP Intake packets. · Offering additional funding to STRTP providers for 1:1 staffing support and single-room occupancy. · Utilization the Catalyst Center and Youth Resource Workgroup · Participation in the Family Network of Support meetings for difficult to place youth to identify who can do what to preserve and stabilize a youth's placement · Participate in CDSS Technical Assistance calls for challenging to place youth/youth with special medical and/or complex needs. • The County has communicated that they do not foresee closing the Assessment Center in September of 2023. When does the County foresee no longer needing the Receiving Center? The County does not have an identified date by which we can anticipate no longer needing the Assessment Center. The County does not have enough emergency home-based or STRTP placements available for the (Cont. Lic809c) youth who require out-of-home placement. There are youth who providers will not accept for placement and who have no other safe, caring adults in their lives that are willing to care for them even on a short-term, temporary basis. For those youth, the AC is their only option. At the last Annual Meeting with the County, the County shared they had implemented new strategies to help build capacity in home-based care and STRTPs. • What activities has the County implemented that have increased capacity in home-based care and in STRTPs? o What outreach and/or strategies have been used in 2022 to increase capacity in home-care and in STRTPs? The County has continued all efforts to increase capacity as identified at the previous Annual Meetings. Our strategies includes the following efforts: o Recruitment website (myresourcefamily.org) o In-person recruitment events and fairs o Ongoing work with our two consultant agencies, Hill and Associates Consulting and Experience Consultants o Participation in the Resource Parent Association meeting o Expansion of the REFUGE STRTP preferred placement contract - 8 beds o Completion of the Emergency/Guaranteed bed contract with Lighthouse Mentoring Center - 4 beds o Development of an ISFC/TFC Contract with Alternative Family Services Foster Family Agency - 4 beds o Daley Solutions recruitment support offered by CDSS o How effective have these efforts been in increasing capacity in home-based care and in STRTPs respectfully?  Has the County been more successful at building capacity for some foster youth populations over others? If so, please identify the populations for which the county has greater challenges. o By how much has the county's capacity increased or decreased in 2022? Increasing home-based capacity has been a challenge, but one that we've come to expect. Providers are (Cont. Lic809c) interested in providing care for youth under the age of 12 years. The County needs homes that will care for older youth and teens ages 13-17 years. Although we were unable to increase capacity enough to eliminate our reliance on the AC we were successful in creating placement options for teens. Our efforts made towards increasing the home-based care has yielded 3 new county RFA homes that accept teens and FFA ISFC homes that accept teens and offer TFC services. The County has increased capacity by seven (7) homes and look forward to increasing that number with our continued efforts. We were also able expand our contract and create a new contract with two (2) STRTP providers that offered 12 beds to our youth. • What efforts has the County made in reducing the use of the Assessment Center o Have these efforts been effective in reducing the use of the Assessment Center? Why or why not? All of the placement efforts and strategies utilized are in place to locate timely placements, reduce the county's reliance on the AC, and eliminate client overstays. These youth have multiple challenges making locating placement difficult. The majority of the youth have a demonstrated need for a higher level of care and require a STRTP placement. Efforts to place youth in the least restrictive settings have been exhausted and are no longer appropriate to meet the youth's needs. Despite all efforts made the AC continues to be needed to care for children and youth who have no other placement options. (Cont. Lic809c) • The County has communicated that they do not foresee closing the Assessment Center in September of 2023. When does the County foresee no longer needing the Receiving Center? The county does not have an identified closure date for the Assessment Center. The county plans to submit a letter of extension to continue the AC operations. The county is currently looking for a new location and will be submitting a new application for licensure. Barriers to placement and Overstays: • In 2021 the County reported 43 youth had repeat overstays, but in 2022 the number increased to103 youth having repeat overstays. What would the County attribute to the significant increase in repeat overstays? o The months having the highest repeat overstays where December 2021 and 2022, March and September 2022.  Why did the County see the highest repeat stays in these months?  Did the county adjust their strategy in preventing/reducing repeat overstays in 2023 as a result of this data? o The most reported barriers to placement were complex care needs, lack of placement, and sibling set.  What steps did the County take to address the above-mentioned barriers while ensuring children were placed in the least restrictive setting that could best meet their needs during 2022?  What is the County doing to ensure that the above-mentioned barriers to placement are addressed going forward? The County is experiencing a return to pre-pandemic operations and as anticipated intakes have been steadily increasing. We tend to have an increase in intakes when children have more access to service providers and when there are school breaks. Intakes tend to increase in September when school resumes and during the months there are school breaks like Christmas and Spring Break. Families tend to travel more during these months and request respite or removal of children and youth in their homes. These also tend to be the months during which caregivers and providers slow down on accepting intakes into their homes and facilities due to vacation and other transitions. During this time we see an increase in youth at the AC and more youth who overstay because there are fewer placement options. (Cont. Lic809c) The county did adjust our strategies for reducing overstays as a result of the data and most months we had success, but at times there were no safe alternatives for youth and their only option was to come to the AC. For those youth we were unable to arrange for visits with family/friends, emergency placements, or transitions from the AC within the 72 hour timeframe. These youth most often had high mental health acuity and behavioral needs, which were greater than what most caregivers and STRTP providers believed they were able to handle. Due to these challenges, older youth and teens overstayed at the AC while efforts to find an appropriate placement continued. As previously mentioned, all of the placement efforts and strategies utilized are in place to locate timely placements in the least restrictive environment able to meet the child and youth's needs. Participation in CFTs have continued and search efforts made to address any placement needs. The chart above reflects the majority of overstays at the AC are youth between the ages of 13-17 with multiple challenges making locating placement difficult. The majority of the youth have a demonstrated need for a higher level of care and require a STRTP placement. Efforts to place youth in the least restrictive settings have been exhausted and that level of care is no longer appropriate to meet the youth's needs. Once a higher level of care is identified all focus becomes locating a STRTP that can address the needs the youth has. However, the goal of placement in the least restrictive environment does not end. Within the next six (6) months of placement the possibility of stepping down to a lower level of care is explored.  Is the county aware of the funding from the 2021-2022 budget that was implemented by the Human Services Omnibus Bill, Assembly Bill 153 (AB 153) to provide counties additional funding to address supports for youth with complex care needs ? • Is the county pursuing the child specific complex care funds when appropriate, as outlined in ACL 21-119? • Has the County developed a plan for the capacity building funding also implemented by AB 153 and outlined in ACL 21-143? • Will these initiatives incorporate supports/services for expanding the options available at the local level for youth without resorting to shelters? • Is the County aware of the Complex Care Resource Guide 2022? If so, has the County accessed any of the resources (other than the funding from AB 153) addressed in the guide? If not, does the County intend to access any of these resources? (Cont. Lic809c) The County is aware of the funding supports, capacity building opportunities, and the complex care resource guide that are available. The County has every intention on accessing this available supports and will be hiring a Program Specialist that will be responsible for submitting the applications. Although the County has not utilized any AB153 funding that has not prevented us from accessing County Pay funds to arrange for STRTP for 1 and a STRTP for 2 placement options, provide funding for 1:1 and 2:1 staffing supports for youth, and paid for single-room occupancy for youth who required this level of care and support. The county has also provided funding for additional mental health services that were not covered by medi-cal benefits in order to meet our youth's needs and preserve their placements. The County has utilized the following resources to assist with consultation and guidance for placement of hard to place youth: · The Family Urgent Response System (FURS) · Technical Assistance Calls · ASIST/Specialized Permanency Support · Catalyst Center · Daley Solutions • In 2022 (December 2021-December 2022), the County reported 156 children overstayed (approximately 18% of the total population), this is a reduction of approximately 10% from the 2021 reported overstays.  What would the county attribute to having 18% of youth entering the shelter resulting in an overstay?  Has the County observed any trends and how have those trends been mitigated?  Of the 156 reported overstays, 88% were reported to be by youth who are 13 years of age or older. How is the County addressing overstays of this critical age group? With the County's focus on reducing the reliance on the AC the youth who are at the AC are the ones who have no other alternatives for safe care. The majority of the intakes are older youth and teens ages 13-17 years old who have multiple co-occurring conditions, frequent awols, CSEC/trafficking, refusal to attend school, participate in mental health treatment or take medication, and have a significant history of placement disruptions. These youth often are more difficult to place and locating and arranging placement often (Cont. Lic809c) exceed the 72-hour timeframe. There are a number of youth in Alameda County that providers are unwilling to work with and these youth linger at the AC while ongoing search efforts continue. Most of the youth in this age group receive multiple removal notices and find themselves returning to the AC more frequently without the benefit of receiving any mental health care. Is the County pursuing any initiatives targeted specifically to build capacity for this age group? The County continues to reach out to STRTP providers on a quarterly basis to partner with them and explore ways to build their capacity and ability to care for more youth. Due to the high cost of living in the Bay Area most providers are unable to purchase additional homes and increase their capacity. However, one STRTP provider is exploring purchasing a new larger home outside of the Bay Area in order to care for teens. The provider is planning to write a proposal for the County's review. Upon review, the County will explore supporting the STRTP using Complex Care/Capacity Building funding. 6 and Under Population: • By law, a transitional shelter care facility is designed to "primarily serve[s] children who have previously been placed in a community care facility and are awaiting placement into a different community care facility that is appropriate to their needs. Children residing in transitional shelter care facilities may include children who are very difficult to place in appropriate community care facilities because of factors which may be present in combination, including: threatening, aggressive, suicide, runaway or destructive behaviors and behaviors as defined in Section 5600.3 of theWelfare and Institutions Code (WIC)." (Health & Saf. Code (HSC) § 1502.3, subd. (d).) State law discourages the placement of children under age 6 in congregate care facilities as reflected in WIC section 361.2(e) Further, the CDSS recently released guidance addressing the requirements for care of children under age 6 and between ages 6 and 12, and providing reminders of the limitations on use of shelters as placement resources for these populations. ACIN No. I-08-22; REMINDER OF REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CARE OF CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF SIX AND PLACEMENT OF YOUNG CHILDREN IN SHELTER CARE Given the aforementioned, does the County have a plan to eliminate younger children (under six (6) years of age) from entering the Assessment Center? What is the County's plan? (Cont. Lic809c) The County is aware of purpose of the Transitional Shelter Care Facility and the care for young children, specifically ages 0-6 years. The County has done a good job of reducing the reliance on the AC for our younger children. Children under the age of 6 are not able to utilize the AC unless there are no other options for their safe care. Once at the AC, timeframes are closely monitored to ensure that children are transitioned to placement as quickly as children and overstays are the exception. The County also agrees that younger children, should they need to come to the AC, should be separated from older youth. The County is currently creating a new and separate space, which will be able to accommodate the care for children under the age of 12. Youth ages 13 and older will be cared for in a separate space within the facility. Separating the children and youth will allow child care staff to focus on their individual and developmental needs. Partnership • In what ways can the CDSS support the County to best meet the needs of children who are experiencing overstays? Could the County benefit from any of the resources identified in the Complex Care Resource Guide 2022? The County continues to utilize and benefit from the resources identified in the Complex Care Resource Guide. The County has received support from the Catalyst Center, CCL, and CDSS to help support efforts to locate placement for very hard to place youth. However, for a few of our clients at the AC, despite all of the supports offered by CDSS and the Catalyst Center, placements have not been located and the youth remain at the AC. Last year, the County identified needing support from CDSS to hold STRTPs accountable for accepting youth into their programs when they have vacancies. STRTPs are not under contract with Counties so this leaves Counties with little authority to hold STRTPs accountable for not accepting youth who meet that level of care or submitting notices for removal without providing any services needed to support any changes in the youth's behavior. This past year, we were informed that CDSS did not have the authority to influence" STRTPs with vacancies to accept placement, even for a short period of time. In addition, the County identified that it would be supportive if CDSS helped to enforce the 14-day notice policy and eliminate the ability for STRTP providers to submit same day or emergency removals. More and more STRTPs are submitting immediate removal notices and returning youth to the AC. This leaves the County (Cont. Lic809c) with very little time to arrange for alternative care and the AC becomes the only immediate option. Without these two needed supports the County will continue to be unable to eliminate the reliance on the AC. Next Steps: • The CDSS recently extended the license for two additional three-month increments for a total of six months at which time the County has communicated they will be closing in the month of September of 2023. What activities does the County plan to perform to reduce the need for/use of the Assessment Center for the next two quarters and be prepared to close the facility as proposed? o What strategies is the County utilizing to find placement for children currently served by the Assessment Center when it is closed? o What efforts is the County making to recruit more emergency placement homes and/or STRTP options? o What supports are in effect for home-based and STRTP providers that have been determined to be successful in reducing the need to enter into the shelter? o The Assessment's Center's Admissions increased by almost 6% from 2021 to 2022. What would the county attribute to the increase in admissions and what will the county do to reduce the number of admissions in the future? o What is the County's plan to eliminate the need for the Assessment Center? o Please provide details on activities and dates within the next quarter by which the County will perform said activities. The County is not working towards closure of the AC at this time. Children, youth, and Nonminor Dependents continue to require the safe housing, services, and support provided by the Center. The County intends to submit a letter requesting an extension of the TSCF license within the next 30 days. The County is currently searching for a different facility and plans to submit a new program statement and an application for licensure. The location of the new facility is expected to occur within the next three (3) to six (6) months. The County will keep CCL apprised of any location updates. The County continues to work towards reducing the reliance on the AC, however as we return to pre-pandemic operations our intakes at the AC will continue to increase. However, there are several practices in place to help ensure that only the youth who have no other options for care receive services at the AC. Once at the AC, these practices include making daily placement efforts and monitoring timeframes (Cont. Lic809c) to make sure youth are not overstaying and transition from the AC can occur within the 72-hour timeframe. However, the youth who heavily rely on the AC and overstay are our most difficult to place youth. These are youth who struggled prior to the pandemic at home and in school. The pandemic highlighted the challenges youth and their families had accessing services and supports. School-based and community-based mental health programs are still unable to meet the needs of the children and youth we all serve and at times the child welfare system is a family's only hope when they are in crisis. We see these children and youth at the AC and are tasked with finding placement within the 72-hour timeframe. These youth are involved in acts of community violence, frequently awol from the facility, refuse to participate in mental health services or take medication, refuse to attend school, are non-compliant with house and program rules, have little to no tolerance and capacity to deal with disappointment, rejection, sadness that at times lead to threats and assaults on staff, teachers, and peers. Many of the needs our youth have were not served during the pandemic and have only increased. Most providers are unwilling, unable, or not equipped to care for the needs our youth currently have. STRTPs do not offer comprehensive mental health and medication services and often cite that our youth need a "higher level of care" when they are deemed to be the highest. When all of this occurs, youth are kicked out of their homes and facilities and are brought to the AC and we are responsible for their care and tasked with finding a home that is able to meet their various needs and handle their behaviors. Although the issue may appear to be an AC or capacity issue, it is actually a societal issue, one that most counties are dealing with. Until counties and the state can collectively work together to identify or create additional placement options, the services of the AC will continue to be needed because it is the only housing option some of our youth currently have. The County will continue our work with our two consultant agencies, Hill and Associates Consulting and Michael Sanders and the Experience with the goal of increasing the number of home-based resource family placements for our older youth and teens. We will be working with both teams to re-launch the Emergency RFA Campaign - Recruitment is Everybody's Business. The increase in home-based care will benefit youth new to our foster care system that do not require the level of care provided by STRTPs, but will allow teens to grow up in with a family setting, complete school in their communities, and remain engaged with extracurricular and enrichment activities, and continued employment. As previously mentioned, the AC is creating a new and separate space to accommodate the care of children ages 0-12 years old. The new space is expected to be completed within the next 30 days. (Cont. Lic809c) The Assessment Center TSCF continues to be important and necessary for our young people in foster care. There remains a considerable lack of resources throughout our state, not just in Alameda County, and the STRTPs and Behavioral Health Care systems are still rebuilding and finding ways to meet the mental health and behavioral needs of our children and youth. Due to the lack of bed capacity, the very long intake process for placement at a STRTP facility that cannot be completed in 72 hours, lack of mental health and educational services, older youth and teens refusing out-of-county placements, and STRTP facilities refusing to accept placement of youth despite having vacancies, our AC is necessary and important and the need for our services continues to exist. We are fortunate that we have the AC so our children and youth are not left without a place responsible for their care. Alameda County continues to take every opportunity to work with the State to explore all available options for the care and placement of hard to place youth, but at this time there are no viable, long-lasting options. Hard to place youth with co-occurring mental health and behavioral needs see more notices for their removal from facilities designed to meet their needs and their stays at STRTP facilities gets shorter with each new placement. Alameda County continues to work very hard to comply with the directives from CCL and CDSS. We have updated our practices to ensure we are only caring for children, youth, and NMDs who have no other safe choice for their care. We are reducing our reliance on the AC by identifying other safe alternatives for placement and care for children and youth so they do not need to come to the AC. We also working diligently towards eliminating overstays and the monthly overstay reports reflect that we have reduced not only the number of intakes at the AC, but also the length of time the majority of children and youth remain at our facility. This concluded CCL's Annual Review of the Alameda County Assessment Center. An exit interview was conducted, and a copy of this report was emailed to Administrator Mia Bucker-Preston with read receipt. Administrator Bucker-Preston will sign all documents and return to LPM Flynn over email


state: CA

facility_name: ALAMEDA COUNTY TRANSITIONAL SHELTER CARE FACILITY

summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 7/15/2024 at 10:30am, a meeting was conducted to discuss the pending application and transition plan for the listed location. The following attendees were present: Selena Hood, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA), Community Care Licensing (CCL) Carolyn Flynn, Licensing Program Manager (LPM), CCL Nelson Martinez, Regional Manager (RM), CCL Alicia Bernstein - Manager, Systems of Care Branch (SOC) Ashley Bray - Manager, SOC Chadwyck Moore - Analyst, SOC Anita Copeland - Manager, SOC Mia Buckner-Preston - Administrator (ADM), Alameda County Assessment Center (AC) Michelle Love - Assistant Agency Director (AAD), AC Melissa Fegurgur - Program Manager, AC Makda Woldensbet - Program Specialist, AC During the meeting, CCL and SOC representatives discussed the Notice of Incomplete Application, revision letters, and Emergency Intervention Plan and Runaway Plan revision letters that were previously sent to the applicant. The applicant stated that they understood the asks discussed and will be sending updated Program Statement and forms; the applicant will submit these updates by 7/17/2024. The applicant asked for resources and advice for de-escalation procedures to prevent staff and client injuries. SOC relayed that they would share current resources. AAD shared that they had begun working with the local law enforcement agency to enforce the relationship. LPM stated that the facility sketch has not been procured. AAD and ADM relayed that they would be submitting the facility sketch later that same day (7/15/2024). The meeting adjourned at 11:55AM. This report will be sent virtually for signature.

report_type: Facility Evaluation

met_with: Mia Buckner-Preston


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Monica Pavia conducted a pre-licensing inspection on July 24, 2024, 10:15am, at the address listed above. Alameda County Social Services Agency has submitted an application be for a Transitional Shelter Care Facility (TrSCF), to be licensed for a capacity of 10 ambulatory children ages 0-17, plus nonminor dependents (NMDs). This site inspection was conducted with Mia Buckner-Preston, Emily Lathrop, Makda Woldesenbet, and Jennifer Moeller. Alameda County is in the process of relocating to this location from their previous county operated shelter. Some furniture & other miscellaneous items being used at the other county shelter will be moved at a later date, prior to placements at current site. The following was observed: The campus currently has 3 buildings on the property. Facility campus has an electronic gate with code entry as you enter the driveway. House A is the main house to be used immediately for residential clients, capacity of 6, 3 clients bedrooms, 1 client bathroom, kitchen, nurse office, laundry closet, living room and a large multi-use room as you enter House A. House A has a fireplace, with cover, that meets TrSCF Operating Standards, Version 1, dated February 2023. Sharps are in a lock box kept locked in House A's laundry closet. All medications will be kept in a locked cabinet, in the locked nurse's office. A waiver for Naloxone (aka Narcan) will be requested to LPA Pavia for processing. First aid kits are throughout the home. Disposable paper/plastic products will be utilized in this facility in lieu of washable plates, cups and cutlery. Hot water measured at 135 degrees, and will be turned down prior to accepting placements. Additional observations include: individual beds were observed with clean linens; additional bedding and linens observations; dayrooms are accommodating of all required furnishings; food storage space observed; some nonperishable foods observed; perishable foods and additional nonperishable foods will be bought prior to placements; and, living room and kitchen equipped with tables and chairs accommodating all clients. Lockers are available and accessible for clients, with code. Staff will also have re-programmable code and locker key, in the event the code is forgotten. House B is currently being utilized for storage and staff work areas. House B will eventually be used for residential clients and possible staff offices. House B is locked at all times, when staff are not in the house. LPA Pavia will be notified prior to client placements in House B, at which time an inspection of this house will be conducted. The third building is a barn with horse stables. A decision has yet to be made on whether the building will be torn down, or utilized for another purpose. This building will be kept in compliance, for the safety of clients, until a decision is made. The campus currently has cameras on the grounds outside, that pre-dated applicant's control of property. There are no cameras inside any residential buildings on the campus and applicant is aware cameras are not allowed inside. All signs and required forms to be posted when relocation is complete, prior to placements. Alarms will be installed on building doors and windows, on a future date. The applicant is waiting for a new certificate of occupancy from the Building Official, in order to schedule the fire inspection. Fire extinguishers are located inside and outside of buildings, campus-wide. The applicant is contracted to employ security personnel. No firearms are allowed inside residential units. The applicant and security personnel's firearm policy needs further review, to ensure Community Care Licensing compliance. The following items listed below were discussed and need to be completed. Applicant will notify LPA Pavia when completed. General Service Agents (GSA) with Alameda County are scheduled to the site location Friday, 7/26/24, to attend to property building needs. 1. Removing all waste/garbage/donations, not wanted or needed, from property and barn. 2. Adding a lock on the fence in the back of the property, which leads to a creek. 3. Adding/providing locks everywhere required. 4. Adjusting hot water heater. Building water temperature must read between 105 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit. 5. All extra bedding will be removed from client bedroom closets and kept in a communal closet. 6. All waste bins with lids have been ordered. LPA reviewed monthly population and overstay reports, due to be emailed to LPA Pavia, by the 10th of each month. LPA Pavia will email instructions to request Narcan waiver, at a later date. LPA will email medication form instructions, at a later date. It was also discussed that should Alameda County need to place a client under an emergency status at the new location prior to full licensure, they will exhaust all other placement options, follow the new OS, notify the Department when a client is placed.

visit_type: Prelicensing


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
Regional Manager (RM), Helga Wong and Licensing Program Analyst (LPM), Carolyn Flynn conducted an Office Meeting, via Microsoft Teams, on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 11: AM. The purpose of this meeting was to discuss the status of the Alameda County Transitional Care Facility (TrSCF) application. Present in today's meeting from Community Care Licensing (CCL) were RM Wong and LPM Flynn and from Alameda County were Michelle Love, Assistant Agency Director and Mia Buckner-Preston, Division Director. CCL inquired about the progress and plan of Alameda County TrSCF property. Discussion was had regarding the use of "House A" and House B". It was discussed that the fire inspection was completed, but there are still additional requirements that need to be met before clearance is granted. Since the initial application was for a capacity of 10, total for both houses, it was suggested that they resubmit a new LIC200 to reflect a capacity of six and when the second building, house B, is ready they can request an increase in capacity and request a new fire clearance. Mia will follow up with submitting a new LIC200. It was discussed that prior to any construction on the property, they will submit a safety plan on how the county will ensure the safety of the clients in care. A copy of this report was sent via email to Mia Buckner-Preston with a request for signature and to be returned for the Departments' file.


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Monica Pavia conducted a 2nd, pre-licensing inspection on December 30, 2025, 11:30am, at the address listed above. Alameda County Social Services Agency has applied for a Transitional Shelter Care Facility (TrSCF), to be licensed for a capacity of 10 ambulatory children ages 0-17, plus nonminor dependents (NMDs). This site inspection was conducted with Mia Buckner-Preston, Emily Lathrop, Makda Woldesenbet, Rutendo Crawford and Don Nevis. This is a follow up prelicensing inspection from the original prelicensing inspection, dated July 24, 2024. This inspection is being conducted for the building referred to as 'House A', closest structure to the street (Palo Verde). Community Care Licensing (CCL) received a granted fire clearance dated December 5, 2025, issued by Alameda County Fire Department. This fire clearance was granted for a capacity of ten (10) ambulatory youth, ages 0-17 years of age, and Nonminor Dependents. The building referred to as 'House B', located behind 'House A', is not cleared by CCL as a congregate care unit. House B may not be accessed by youth in placement. Placement services may not be provided to youth in House B. House B is currently being utilized for storage and staff work areas. House B is locked at all times, when staff are not in the house. The following was observed: LPA Pavia observed the corrections and/or updates requested on reports, as stated on July 24, 2024, inspection report. The campus currently has cameras on the grounds outside, that pre-dated applicant's control of property. There are no cameras inside any residential buildings on the campus and applicant is aware cameras are not allowed inside. All signs and required forms are current and posted in House A, with a view to all youth in care. The applicant is contracted to employ security personnel. No firearms are allowed inside residential units. Security personnel shall have their firearms and ammunition locked in separate lock boxes, then locked in Security Personnel assigned lockers, with lock. LPA Pavia verified lockboxes and lockers met CCL standards. LPA reviewed monthly population and overstay reports, due to be emailed to LPA Pavia, by the 10th of each month. Once Administrator Certificate application has been reviewed and approved by Administration Certificate Bureau, LPA Pavia will submit Alameda County TrSCF application to LPM Flynn for final review and approval. LPA Pavia will follow up with licensure of TrSCF, located at address listed on report. A copy of this report was left at facility.


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
Licensing Program Analyst LPA) Monica Pavia made an unannounced site inspection to Alameda County Transitional Shelter Care Facility (TrSCF), on April 29, 2026, at 10:30am. LPA was greeted by Luis Mayorga, on site clinician, with West Coast Children's Clinic. LPA introduced herself as the assigned LPA for this location and the contact person if any questions arise. LPA conducted a site inspection, with Clinician, on the above date. LPA also left contact information of work cell phone number and email address. A copy of this report was left with the agency as well as emailed to Mia Buckner- Preston, Michelle Love and Makda Woldesenbet.

visit_type: Case Management

met_with: Luis Mayorga


facility_name: ALMADEN EXPWY

summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 11/19/2024 at 4:00PM, a virtual meeting was conducted with an applicant for the purpose of providing technical assistance for Department of Children and Family Services (DFCS). The following were present at the meeting: Helga Wong - CCL Regional Manager (RM) Mona Lam - CCL Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Alicia Bernstein - Program Manager, System of Care Branch (PM) Chadwyck Moore - Provider Analyst, System of Care Branch Damion Wright - Director of Santa Clara County Department of Family and Children Services Wendy Kinnear - Acting Assistant Director of Santa Clara County Department of Family and Children Services Priscilla Mojica-Angulo - Program Manager, Santa Clara County Clarence Cisneros Jones - Designated Administrator for Riverview TrSCF and Hidden Valley TrSCF Nandini Iyer - County Counsel, Santa Clara County Kristofer Nguyen - Santa Clara County Representative During the meeting, the applicant and CCL representatives discussed in regards CCL different site visits (annual, post-licensing, complaints, and case management), different types of deficiencies (technical advisories, technical violations, Type B Citation, Type A Citation), additional steps for Almaden Expressway TrSCF and McKee TrSCF application, and guidance on the program statement on medication and $500 limit for youths. DFCS inquired dates for the pre-licensing, Component II and Component III prior to licensure. RM Wong stated pending items for the applicant includes needing to submit a written closure plan for Hidden Valley TrSCF. The meeting concluded at 5: PM.

met_with: Damion Wright


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 11/27/2024 at 10: AM, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Mona Lam and Licensing Program Manager (LPM) Carolyn Flynn conducted an announced visit to the applicant location. The purpose of this visit was to conduct the Pre-Licensing inspection for the applicant. LPA and LPM met with Damion Wright, Priscilla Mojica-Angulo, Teana Box, Raymond Gonzales, Karin Roberts, Wendy Kinnear, and Matthew Hornung. LPA and LPM conducted a tour of the facility. The facility has two living units. One unit is in use for solely clients. The unit contains a three bedrooms and two bathrooms (one client bathroom and one staff bathroom) residential home. LPA and LPM observed that the kitchen which had sufficient amounts of non-perishable items. The facility currently have no perishable items due to food services are catered and no clients currently reside at the unit. The staff bathroom is locked and includes laundry machines. Priscilla stated that detergents, soaps, and cleaning compounds will be locked within the staff bathroom. In addition, Priscilla stated that knives and sharps will be locked within the other living unit. Posted bill of rights and clients complaint procedures were observed at the entrance of the unit. LPA advised in having a locked box to drop grievance forms to ensure confidentiality of clients. Client bathroom was observed. Bathroom tap water reached to 117 degrees Fahrenheit. The unit uses smoke and carbon monoxide dual detectors, which were tested and found to be working during inspection. The three client bedrooms contained two furnished beds with two dressers each. Priscilla stated that the facility will additionally provide one shared desk space in each bedroom. One bedroom had additional closet space. Five out of six bedframes have a platform that is similar to a captain's bed without the drawers underneath. CCL will check regulations and will respond accordingly. (See LIC809-C) LPA and LPM observed the outdoor area. The outdoor area had a table with benches. In addition, a creek resides to the back of the property. Fencing is around five feet, covering the perimeter of the property. LPM advised in having the fencing covered with a privacy screen on the back of the premises. In addition, LPA and LPM observed areas of spacing towards the front of the property, uncovered due to planting arrangements. LPM advised in covering up the open spacing. Facility will provide pictures of coverage to CCL within 30 days. LPA and LPM observed the second living unit. Priscilla stated that staff will only have access to this living unit. This unit has two floors. On the first floor, there is a living room, dining space, kitchen, and staff bathroom. Dining space contains a locked medicine and cash resources cabinet. First aid was observed and was in compliance. LPA advised in submitting a Narcan waiver request in usage of Narcan. Living room contained a storage closet with school supplies. LPA advised in providing a pencil sharpener with monitored usage. The second floor contains three rooms and a bathroom. Within a closet space on the second floor, there is a locked files cabinet. LPA and LPM observed disaster preparedness plan, which was in compliance. LPM advised in practicing flood drills due to property location. LPA observed five staff files. One of the staff files did not contain fingerprint clearance, driver's license, health and tuberculosis test, CPR, and training. It was explained that the staff was new and has been working for a month. LPA advised in having documentation practiced and in files as soon as possible once a new staff is hired. Four CPR/First Aid were observed as adult only CPR/First Aid. The applicant is currently working for all staff members to receive CPR/First Aid training for children. LPA observed two expired driver's license in files. Applicant is working in retrieving current driver's license for staff. LPA additionally reviewed individual forms of client intake, registrar of clients, and youth info. LPA and LPM observed garage space. On the exterior space of the garage, two surveillance cameras were located. Surveillance cameras were from previous landlord, which are not in use. Priscilla stated that DFCS are in discussion of installing surveillance cameras on the exterior of Almaden Expressway TrSCF. LPA stated in will providing PIN in regards of instructions and regulations regarding surveillance cameras. LPA conducted an exit interview with Priscilla Mojica-Angulo and Teana Box. Priscilla's signature confirms the receipt of this document. A copy of this report was printed and left at the site.

met_with: Priscilla Mojica-Angulo


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 12/10/2024 at 1:30PM, a virtual meeting was conducted to discuss the Component II and Component III for the facility application. The following attendees were present at the meeting: Helga Wong - CCL Regional Manager (RM) Carolyn Flynn - CCL Licensing Program Manager (LPM) Mona Lam - CCL Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Simran Nayyar - CCL Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Chadwyck Moore - Provider Analyst, System of Care Branch Damion Wright - Director of Santa Clara County Department of Family and Children Services Priscilla Mojica-Angulo - Program Manager, Santa Clara County Clarence Cisneros Jones - Designated Administrator for Riverview TrSCF and Hidden Valley TrSCF Teana Box - Management Analyst, DFCS Nandini Iyer - County Counsel, Santa Clara County During the meeting, applicant and CCL representatives discussed the TrSCF Operating Standards, Program Statement, and program policies. Incident reporting, personal property, basic services, accountability, personnel requirements, personnel records, ratios, personal rights, manual restraints and emergency intervention plan, admission agreements, medical assessment, client records, register of clients, transportation, health-related services, food services, building and grounds, inspection authority, waivers and exceptions, planned activities, neighborhood policy and community resources, compliance and the LPA, deficiency types, and administrative actions were discussed during the meeting. LPA Lam shared the Community Care Licensing Division website, Provider Information Notices (PINs), quarterly provider meetings dates, different LIC 624 forms, and psychotropic training information. CCL representatives reiterated information on unlicensed care and penalties pertaining to it. LPA Lam discussed the pending items pertaining to the applicant: clarification on roles equivalent to facility manager, physical plant corrections for Almaden TrSCF, and cleared staff background checks. LPA Lam discussed that revisions for McKee TrSCF is due on December 26, 2024 and the Welcoming Center application is due on December 30, 2024. LPA Lam stated if extensions are needed, they need to be requested via email. DFCS stated that Morgan Hill TrSCF application is on pause. The meeting was adjourned at 3: PM. This report will be sent for digital signature.


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 12/26/24, at 2: PM, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Mona Lam met with John Carr, covering Shift Supervisor. The purpose of the visit was to interview clients pertaining to a complaint investigation from Hidden Valley TrSCF. At the time of the visit, 4 staff and 2 clients were at the site. It was stated that one client was at work and another client was out on a visit. LPA Lam conducted one confidential interview. Administrator arrived to site at 2: PM. An exit interview was conducted and copy of the report is given to Priscilla Mojica-Angelo.

met_with: Priscilla Mojica-Angelo


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 12/27/24, at 2: PM, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Mona Lam conducted an unannounced visit to the facility listed above. The purpose of this visit was to deliver the findings pertaining to a complaint from Hidden Valley TrSCF. LPA Lam met with Clarence Cisneros-Jones. An exit interview was conducted and a copy of the report was left with Clarence Cisneros-Jones.

met_with: Clarence Cisneros-Jones


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 02/07/2025 at 9: AM, Licensing Program Analysts (LPAs) Mona Lam and Omar Sawyer made an unannounced inspection to the above facility. The purpose of this inspection is to inform the facility representative that a complaint investigation is being conducted for a closed facility, Hidden Valley TrSCF. At the time of the inspection, members of the Juvenile Justice Committee Board members were present at the site. LPAs conducted a facility walkthrough and found physical plant to be in compliance. An exit interview was conducted and a copy of this report was left with Priscilla Mojica-Angelo.


summary: Facility Evaluation - 1 deficiency

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 03/12/25 at 10: AM, Licensing Program Analysts (LPAs) Mona Lam and Hanako Primer conducted an unannounced inspection to the above licensed facility. The purpose of this visit is to conduct a post-licensing inspection. LPAs met with Teana Box, Management Analyst, and Priscilla Mojica-Angulo, Administrator who assisted LPAs with the inspection. During the inspection, LPAs inspected six staff files. Areas were identified that can be improved by the facility. LPAs issued two technical violations and one technical advisory. The following three Type B deficiencies were cited during the inspection:86666(a) Personnel Records, 86675(e) Health Related Services, 6665(v)(5) Personnel Requirements. The inspection was not complete at this time. LPAs will complete inspection at a later date. An exit interview was conducted a copy of this report and appeals rights page were discussed, printed, and delivered to Priscilla Mojica-Angulo and Teana Box prior to leaving the facility.

Deficiencies:
86666(a): TrSCF Operating Standards 86666(a) Personnel Records
(a) The licensee shall ensure that personnel records are maintained on the licensee, administrator and each employee. Each personnel record shall contain the following information


summary: Facility Evaluation - 1 deficiency

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 03/18/25 at 10: AM, Licensing Program Analysts (LPAs) Mona Lam and Hanako Primer conducted an unannounced inspection to the above licensed facility. The purpose of this visit is to conduct a continuation of the post-licensing inspection. LPAs met with Teana Box, Management Analyst, Priscilla Mojica-Angulo, Administrator, and Clarence Cisneros-Jones who assisted LPAs with the inspection. During the inspection, LPAs inspected six staff files, five client files, disaster and mass casualty plan, and facility plan of operation. Areas were identified that can be improved by the facility. LPAs issued six technical violations and one technical advisory. The following five Type B deficiencies were cited during the inspection: 86665(s)(1) Personnel Requirements, 86678.2(a)(3) Trauma Informed Program Practices, Services, and Supports, 86670(a) Client Records, 86765(d)(1) Emergency Intervention Staff Training, and 86665.2(c) Personnel Duties. The inspection was not complete at this time. LPAs will complete inspection at a later date. An exit interview was conducted a copy of this report and appeals rights page were discussed, printed, and delivered to Priscilla Mojica-Angulo, Clarence Cisneros-Jones, and Teana Box prior to leaving the facility.

Deficiencies:
86665.2(c): TrSCF Operating Standards 86665.2(c) Personnel Duties
(c) Social work staff shall complete or assist in the completion of the following for each child


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 05/06/ Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Cole Oliver conducted a collateral visit at the above facility. LPA met with Program Manager, Raymond Gonzalez and informed them of the purpose of the visit. During the visit there were six (6) staff and three (3) clients present at the facility. LPA requested a copy of the LIC During the visit LPA conducted one (1) client and two (2) staff confidential interviews at the facility. An exit interview was conducted, and a copy of this report was provided to, Program Manager, Raymond Gonzalez. Whose signature on this report acknowledges receipt. LPA Oliver also emailed the report to Raymond Gonzalez.

met_with: Program Manger, Raymond Gonzalez


facility_name: CHERISH RECEIVING CENTER

summary: Complaint Investigation - Unsubstantiated - 1 allegation

raw_content:
Investigation Findings:
13Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Paul Simien made an unannounced visit to the above listed facility to inform them of the findings for the above listed allegations. LPA met with Adam Weiner, Administrator (ADM) at 9: AM on 4/5/24. Due to LPA Simien only being able to interview one person involved in the incident, it was determined that the allegations listed above are unsubstantiated. LPA attempted to contact the other individual involved in the incident via their social worker but as of 4/5/24 has not gotten a response. LPA was able to contact an individual that witnessed the incident, but they declined to be interviewed. The facility attempted to send incident reports (IR) to San Jose Children's Residential Regional Office (RO) but RO didn't receive them due to server issues at the facility. The facility re-sent the IRs when informed of this. Although the allegations may have happened or are valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violations did or did not occur, therefore the allegations are UNSUBSTANTIATED. As a result of this visit, there were no title 22 deficiencies observed. Exit interview was conducted and a copy of this report was provided to ADM. UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: SUPERVISORS NAME: Helga Wong LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Paul Simien LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE: I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received. FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE: This report must be available at Child Care and Group Home facilities for public review for 3 years. LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)Page: 1 of 1

Allegations:
- UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion:

report_type: Complaint Investigation

met_with: Adam Weiner, Administrator

complaint_status: unsubstantiated


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 2/25/22 at 11:40am, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Paul Simien conducted an unannounced visit to the above facility. The purpose of this visit was to conduct the required annual inspection. LPA met with Adam Weiner, Core Program Director II (CPD), at the above facility to conduct the required annual inspection. 1. The facility and grounds are in good repair, free of mess, and free of obstructions. 2. There is adequate indoor activity space and materials. 3. Chemicals are stored in a locked cabinet. 4. Locked and centrally stored medications observed. Observed medication logs and discussed procedures for psychotropic medications. 5. First aid kit complete 6. Adequate storage space observed. 7. Individual beds are in good repair, equipped with good springs, clean mattresses and pillows observed. Individual beds and crib were observed with appropriate clean linens in good repair. Adequate supply of additional bedding and linens observed. 8. Facility has three (3) client bedrooms, all located on one single level. Bedrooms are accommodating of all required furnishings. 9. Adequate food storage space observed. Supply of seven days of perishable foods and two weeks of nonperishable foods observed upon inspection. 10. Weekly menu are accessible to clients. 11. Dining room equipped with large table and chairs accommodating all clients. 12. There are three (3) full restrooms in this facility, all are operable. 13. Hot water measured within required range (kitchen sink, two (2) bathrooms). 14. All smoke detectors were tested by a fire inspector and appear to be in proper working order. 15. Carbon monoxide detector observed. 16. Fire extinguishers properly charged. 17. Adequate supply of additional bedding and linens observed. 18. Facility is waiting for fire certificate from the Fire Marshall. Fire inspection was shown as substitute. 19. Sharp objects are stored in locked cabinet. 20. Appropriate forms are posted in view of facility clients. 21. Facility does not have any open bodies of water. 22. No firearms or weapons are allowed in the facility. 23. Licensing Information System (LIS) Fingerprint clearances (dated 6/25/21) were reviewed with CPD. No deficiencies were cited at this time. LPA conducted an exit interview with Adam Weiner, CDP, at 1:00PM.

visit_type: Annual


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 5/12/22 at 10:40am, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Paul Simien conducted an unannounced visit to the above facility. The purpose of this visit was to conduct the continuation required annual inspection started on 2/25/22. LPA met with Adam Weiner, Core Program Director II (CPD), at the above facility to conduct the required annual inspection. The following items were discussed and reviewed by LPA during Inspection: 1.LIC 500 reviewed to ensure appropriate staffing ratios, including Administrator, Social Work personnel, and Direct Care staff. 2. Personnel files obtained/reviewed to ensure staff meet regulatory requirements. All appropriate personnel who require caregiver background checks have received criminal record and child abuse index check clearances or exemptions. Personnel Files are retained at the office and are available to the department for review upon request. 3. Facility procedures for 30-day updates to CCLD regarding participant Overstay logs discussed 4. Facility is to ensure all clients considered for placement have been assessed as meeting placement eligibility requirements. Facility has process in place to contact authorized representatives to ensure assessment for clients' continued placement. 5. Disaster and Mass Casualty Plan was reviewed with CPD. 6. LPA went over the Intake process with CPD. 7. LPA reviewed one client file with CPD. No deficiencies were found but LPA made recommendations regarding training log and keeping the Administrator files with the rest of the staff's files (LPA was still able to view the Administrator files, except the Training log which will be sent next week due to being stored with HR) No deficiencies were cited at this time. LPA conducted an exit interview with Adam Weiner, CDP, at 3:30PM.

met_with: Adam Wiener


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 2/27/23 at 10: AM, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Paul Simien conducted an unannounced visit to the above facility. The purpose of this visit was to conduct the required annual inspection. LPA met with Ivette Ochoa, Core Program Supervisor (CPS) at the above facility to conduct the required annual inspection. LPA reviewed six staff files and completed plant inspection. No deficiencies were cited at this time. LPA conducted an exit interview with Ivette Ochoa, CPS at 3: PM.

met_with: Ivette Ochoa, Core Program Supervisor


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 3/3/23 at 11: AM, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Paul Simien conducted an unannounced visit to the above facility. The purpose of this visit was to conduct the required annual inspection. LPA met with Adam Weiner, Administrator (ADM) at the above facility to conduct the required annual inspection. LPA reviewed five client files and completed the disaster preparedness section. . No deficiencies were cited at this time. LPA conducted an exit interview with Adam Weiner, ADM at 3: PM.


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 3/17/23 at 10: AM, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Paul Simien conducted an unannounced visit to the above facility. The purpose of this visit was to conduct the required annual inspection. LPA met with Adam Weiner, Administrator (ADM) at the above facility to conduct the required annual inspection. LPA reviewed emergency interventions and operation sections. LPA interviewed one staff member (only one staff member and no clients were available at the time of interviews.) The inspection is complete at this time, Four Technical assistance were issued. LPA conducted an exit interview with Adam Weiner, ADM at 2: PM.


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 12/8/23 at 10: AM, a meeting was coordinated between Department of Social Services representatives, Aspiranet, Monterey (MC), San Benito (SBC), and Santa Cruz Counties (SCC), and Cherish Receiving Center Representatives. The attendees were as follows: Nelson Martinez - Regional Manager, Community Care Licensing (RM) Helga Wong - Licensing Program Manager, Community Care Licensing (LPM) Paul Simien - Licensing Program Analyst, Community Care Licensing (LPA) Alicia Bernstein - Manager of Placement Support Services, Family Intake and Engagement Unit Chadwyck Moore - Associate Governmental Program Analyst Roderick Franks - Assistant Director, Monterey County Lori Medina - Director of Social Services, Monterey County Eva Jeronimo - Deputy Director, Monterey County Jackie Chavez - FCS Program Manager, Monterey County Edward Juarez-Lefevre - Management Analyst III Gloria Carroll - Division Director, Santa Cruz County Joshua Mercier - Deputy Director, San Benito County Jyotti Pannu - Core Divison Director, Aspiranet Vernon Brown - CEO, Aspiranet Laurie Walsh - COO, Aspiranet Adam Weiner - Core Program Director, Aspiranet During the meeting the attendees discussed the Cherish Receiving Center (CRC) Annual Review Responses. County and Aspiranet representatives were notified that CRC's License expires in February 12, 2024 and that an extension must be formerly requested before then. Dept. of Social Services representatives suggested the request be submitted as soon as possible. Continued on LIC809C... County representatives discussed the action MC, SBC, SCC has taken to lower overstays at the receiving centers. Including working with providers to increase ISFC (Intensive Treatment Foster Care) Resource Family Homes (RFH), efforts to increase relative placements, focusing on converting relative placements into continual RFHs, various methods to increase RFHs, and providing wrap around services for current ISFC/RFHs. Countty representatives expressed that despite increased efforts to decrease use of CRC there are many challenges they encounter and that CRC will continue to be needed. Aspiranet representatives discussed the coordination/partnership it has with the Counties (MC, SBC, SCC), highlighted the successes and challenges of operating crc, reiterated the challenges the Counties are facing, and the continued need for CRC. Aspiranet and County representatives stated the intention to renew CRC's license. The meeting was adjourned at 12: PM

met_with: Vernon Brown/Adam Weiner


summary: Facility Evaluation

raw_content:
Narrative:
On 2/21/24 at 10: AM, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Paul Simien conducted an unannounced visit to the above facility. The purpose of this visit was to conduct the required annual inspection. LPA met with Ivette Ochoa, Core Program Supervisor (CPS) at the above facility to conduct the required annual inspection. Interviewed two staff members and reviewed five staff files. No deficiencies were cited at this time. The inspection is not complete at this time. LPA conducted an exit interview and a copy of this report was emailed to Administrator Adam Weiner.


facility_name: HARMONY HAVEN CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTER

raw_content:
Narrative:
Confidential interviews reported that the facility did respond to the school and agreed with the school personnel that C1 needed to be transported to the hospital for further evaluation. Confidential interviews reported that staff did go to the hospital and waited for C1 to be released. The interviews provided to the LPA were inconsistent regarding the allegations that staff was not properly supervising C1 and did not provide any further details regarding staff supervision and not responding in a timely manner to the school personnel. Based on inconsistent confidential interviews and record reviews, the due to lack of supervision C1 engaged in alcohol/drug usage and the facility staff did not respond in a timely manner to pick up C1 from school are unsubstantiated. The allegations may have occurred, however is not supported or proven by evidence. An exit interview was conducted, appeal rights explained, and a copy of this report was provided to Kamisha Johnson, along with LIC 811.

Investigation Findings:
13On May 21, 2024, at 09:41 am, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Darlene Almaraz-Oseguera met with Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center Program Supervisor Kamisha Johnson, to deliver the investigative findings for the allegations stated above. LPA Cynthia Robinson conducted a health and safety inspection of the facility on February 20, 2024, at 09:55 am, and no immediate deficiencies were observed. During the investigation, interviews were conducted with four children in placement (C1, C2, C3, and C4), and three staff and a Facility Administrator were interviewed. Community Care Licensing (CCL) received allegations that due to lack of supervision C1 engaged in alcohol/drug usage and the facility staff did not respond in a timely manner to pick up C1 from school. Confidential interviews reported that C1 left the facility without permission on 02/14/2024 and proper protocols were followed. C1 returned to the facility in the middle of the night on 02/15/24. Confidential interviews reported that C1 was taken to school as C1 agreed to attend school on 02/15/2024. Confidential interviews reported that the school notified the facility that C1 was under the influence of alcohol/drugs. UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: SUPERVISORS NAME: Cheraki Davis LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Darlene Almaraz LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE: I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received. FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE: This report must be available at Child Care and Group Home facilities for public review for 3 years. LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)Page: 1 of Control Number 19-CR- STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION RIVERSIDE CRP RO, MAIN ST., SUITE FACILITY NAME: HARMONY HAVEN CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTERFACILITY NUMBER: VISIT DATE: 05/21/2024

Allegations:
- UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion:

met_with: Kamisha Johnson


raw_content:
Narrative:
Based on record review and confidential interviews, the staff that did not intervene in inappropriate interactions between minors is substantiated. The preponderance of evidence standard has been met; therefore. This poses a potential Health, Safety, or Personal Rights risk to the children in care. The Transitional Shelter Care Facility is being cited for TSCF Operating Standards, Chapter 12, version one, section 86678 (a) Responsibility for Proving Care and Supervision. An exit interview was conducted, appeal rights explained, and a copy of this report was provided to Dana Young along with LIC 811. The second alleged incident was C2, C3 and C4 inappropriately touching C5. Confidential interviews reported that when staff became aware of this alleged incident, C5 was moved to another cottage, and the supervision was increased. The interviews provided to the LPA were inconsistent regarding the allegation that staff was not properly supervising the minors in care. Based on inconsistent confidential interviews and record reviews, the staff does not prevent a minor (C1) from being abused by other minors (names unknown) is unsubstantiated. The allegation may have occurred, however is not supported or proven by evidence. An exit interview was conducted, appeal rights explained, and a copy of this report was provided to Dana Young along with LIC 811.

Investigation Findings:
13On July 02, 2024, at 8:55 am, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Darlene Almaraz-Oseguera met with Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center Program Deputy Director Dana Young to deliver the investigative findings for the allegation stated above. LPA conducted a health and safety inspection of the facility on April 23, 2024, at noon, and no immediate deficiencies were observed. During the investigation, interviews were conducted with five children in placement (C1, C2, C3, C4, and C5), and three staff members and a facility administrator were interviewed. Community Care Licensing (CCL) received an allegation that staff did not prevent C1 and C2 from engaging in inappropriate interactions. Confidential interviews reported that C1 snuck C2 into C1's bedroom for two days without staff knowledge. Confidential interviews disclosed that C1 and C2 engaged in inappropriate interactions at the facility in C1's bedroom. Confidential interviews revealed that when C2 needed to use the bathroom, C2 would put on a C1 hood and walk past a staff member to go to the bathroom. All of the documentation and confidential interviews corroborated this information. SubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: SUPERVISORS NAME: Cheraki Davis LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Darlene Almaraz LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE: I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received. FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE: This report must be available at Child Care and Group Home facilities for public review for 3 years. LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)Page: 1 of Control Number 19-CR- STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION RIVERSIDE CRP RO, MAIN ST., SUITE FACILITY NAME: HARMONY HAVEN CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTERFACILITY NUMBER: VISIT DATE: 07/02/2024

Allegations:
- SubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: Estimated Days of Completion: Estimated Days of Completion: UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion:

met_with: Dana Young


raw_content:
Narrative:
Confidential interviews indicated that C1 refused to empty C1's pocket and decided to leave the facility again without permission. Confidential interviews stated that the facility protocols for the minors returning from an unauthorized absence must go through an intake and ensure no medical attention is needed and that they do not have any items that can jeopardize their safety and the safety of others. Confidential interviews reported that C1 slept outside the facility for not following the facility protocols. The interviews provided to the LPA were inconsistent regarding the allegations that staff are locking minors out of the facility for multiple days and that staff are conducting unreasonable searches on minors. Based on inconsistent confidential interviews and record reviews, the allegations that staff are locking minors out of the facility for multiple days and that staff are conducting unreasonable searches on minors in care are unsubstantiated. The allegations may have occurred, however is not supported or proven by evidence. An exit interview was conducted, appeal rights explained, and a copy of this report was provided to Dana Young, along with LIC 811.

Investigation Findings:
13On July 2, 2024, at 10:04 am, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Darlene Almaraz-Oseguera met with Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center Program Deputy Director Dana Young to deliver the investigative findings for the allegations stated above. LPA conducted a health and safety inspection of the facility on May 29, 2024, at 11:40 am, and no immediate deficiencies were observed. During the investigation, interviews were conducted with five children in placement (C1, C2, C3, C4, and C5), and three staff members and a Facility Administrator were interviewed. Community Care Licensing (CCL) received allegations that staff are locking minors out of the facility for multiple days and that staff are conducting unreasonable searches on minors in care. Confidential interviews reported that on May 01, 2024, C1 left the facility without permission and ignored staff's verbal prompts not to leave the facility. Confidential interviews reported that C1 returned to the facility and appeared to be under the influence. Confidential interviews reported that C1 refused to empty C1's pockets, as the staff ensured that C1 did not have any paraphernalia or hazardous items. UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: SUPERVISORS NAME: Cheraki Davis LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Darlene Almaraz LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE: I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received. FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE: This report must be available at Child Care and Group Home facilities for public review for 3 years. LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)Page: 1 of Control Number 19-CR- STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION RIVERSIDE CRP RO, MAIN ST., SUITE FACILITY NAME: HARMONY HAVEN CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTERFACILITY NUMBER: VISIT DATE: 07/02/2024

Allegations:
- UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion:


raw_content:
Narrative:
Confidential interviews disclosed that the staff (RM1, RM2, and S1) did not speak to C1 inappropriately and spoke to C1 with respect. Confidential interviews indicated that facility staff (RM1, RM2, and S1) bribed C1 with money. Confidential interviews indicated that C1 had video recordings of RM1 and other facility staff disclosing clients confidential in front of C1 and other clients. Confidential interviews revealed that RM1, RM2, and S1 did not offer C1 one hundred dollars to review the cell phone recordings. Confidential interviews disclosed that RM1, RM2, and S1 requested that C1 share the cell phone recordings. Confidential interviews revealed that RM1 and RM2 offered a gift card incentive to C1 if C1 was being honest. Confidential interviews indicated that C1 requested one hundred dollars to share the video with RM1, RM2, and S1. Confidential interviews disclosed that C1 had a cell phone video recording of RM1 and other facility staff disclosing client confidentiality in front of C1. Confidential interviews indicated that C1 was unable to share video recordings. LPA could not determine if staff bribed C1, whether C1 asked for a monetary gift to show recordings, or if there were some recordings of staff conversation. The Department also received an allegation that the staff (RM1, RM2, and S1) made false allegations against minors (C1) in care. Confidential interviews revealed that C1 was residing at the facility because RM1, RM2, and S1 mentioned that C1 was recruiting for prostitution and attempting to get other clients to do things against their will. Confidential interviews stated that C1 was telling everyone that they (C1) were a "pimp." Confidential interviews indicated that facility staff (RM1, RM2, and S1) did not mention that C1 was recruiting other clients for prostitution. Confidential interviews indicated that there were no false allegations made against C1 recruiting other female clients for prostitution. Confidential interviews revealed that RM1, RM2, and S1 did make false allegations against C1. Other confidential interviews indicated that facility staff (RM1, RM2, and S1) did not make false allegations against C1. Confidential interviews denied the allegation. Based on inconsistent confidential interviews and facility record review, the allegations that staff (RM, RM2, and S1) made inappropriate comments towards minors (C1) in care, that the staff (RM, RM2, and S1) bribed a minor (C1) in care, and that the staff (RM, RM2, and S1) made false allegations against minors (C1) in care are unsubstantiated. The allegation may have happened or is valid, but there is not a preponderance of the evidence to prove that the alleged violation occurred. An exit interview was conducted, appeal rights were explained, and a copy of this report was provided to Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center Regional Manager (RM) Heidi Lombardi.

Investigation Findings:
13On November 14, 2024, at 10:54 am, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Jose Gonzalez conducted an unannounced visit and met with Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center Regional Manager (RM) Heidi Lombardi to deliver the findings for the above-stated allegations. LPA Darlene Almaraz-Oseguera inspected Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center at 8:40 am on May 21, 2024; no health and safety hazards were observed. LPA reviewed three client's records (C1, C2, and C3). During the investigation, interviews were conducted with three clients (C1, C2, and C3), the Supervisor (S1), Staff #2 (S2), the facility Regional Managers (RM1 and RM2), and the County Social Worker. On May 16, 2024, the Department received an allegation that staff (RM, RM2, and S1) made inappropriate comments towards minors (C1) in care and that the staff (RM1, RM2, and S1) bribed a minor (C1) in care. Confidential interviews indicated that RM1, RM2, and S1 made inappropriate comments towards C1. Confidential interviews indicated that staff (RM1, RM2, and S1) never made inappropriate comments to C1. *R- STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION CCLD Regional Office, MAIN ST., SUITE FACILITY NAME: HARMONY HAVEN CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTERFACILITY NUMBER: VISIT DATE: 11/14/2024

Allegations:
- UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion:


raw_content:
Narrative:
Based on inconsistent confidential interviews and facility record review, the allegation that staff do not treat minor (C1) with respect is unsubstantiated. The allegation may have happened or is valid, but there is not a preponderance of the evidence to prove that the alleged violation occurred. An exit interview was conducted, appeal rights were explained, and a copy of this report was provided to Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center Regional Manager (RM) Heidi Lombardi.

Investigation Findings:
13On November 14, 2024, at 11:46 am, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Jose Gonzalez conducted an unannounced visit and met with Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center Regional Manager (RM) Heidi Lombardi to deliver the findings for the above-stated allegation. LPA inspected Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center at 11:08 am on October 10, 2024; no health and safety hazards were observed. LPA reviewed one client record (C1). During the investigation, interviews were conducted with client #1 (C1), Staff #1 (S1), and facility Regional Manager (RM). On October 07, 2024, the Department received an allegation that staff do not treat minor (C1) with respect. Confidential interviews disclosed that C1's cottage staff treated C1 disrespectfully. Confidential interviews indicated that C1's cottage staff treated C1 with respect. Confidential interviews disclosed that S1 and RM treat C1 and clients with respect. Confidential interviews indicated that S1, RM, and C1's cottage staff have never treated C1 disrespectfully. Confidential interviews indicated that C1 denied the allegation occurred. R- STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION CCLD Regional Office, MAIN ST., SUITE FACILITY NAME: HARMONY HAVEN CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTERFACILITY NUMBER: VISIT DATE: 11/14/2024

Allegations:
- UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion:


raw_content:
Narrative:
Confidential interviews indicated that no one recalled the names of the other clients involved in the incident of sneaking alcohol and drugs into the facility. Confidential interviews indicated that C1 blacked out and was transported to the hospital by ambulance. Confidential interviews indicated that C1 woke up in the hospital. Confidential interviews revealed that law enforcement was contacted and searched the cottage for alcohol and drugs, and none were found. Confidential interviews disclosed that C1 did not have access to alcohol and drugs at the facility. Confidential interviews indicated that it could have been possible when the client left the facility without permission to get a hold of drugs and alcohol. LPA was unable to determine if the client had access to alcohol and drugs or if another client provided it. Based on inconsistent confidential interviews and facility record review, the allegation that the client (C1) had access to alcohol and drugs at the facility is unsubstantiated. The allegation may have happened or is valid, but there is not a preponderance of the evidence to prove that the alleged violation occurred. An exit interview was conducted, appeal rights were explained, and a copy of this report and LIC 811 were provided to Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center Regional Manager (RM) Heidi Lombardi.

Investigation Findings:
13On December 12, 2024, at 9:23 am, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Jose Gonzalez conducted an unannounced visit and met with Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center Regional Manager (RM) Heidi Lombardi to deliver the findings for the above-stated allegation. LPA Darlene Almaraz-Oseguera inspected Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center at 11:31 am on June 18, 2024; no health and safety hazards were observed. LPA reviewed three client's records (C1, C2, and C3). During the investigation, interviews were conducted with clients (C1, C2, and C3), Staff #1 (S1), and Facility Regional Manager (RM). On June 13, 2024, the Department received an allegation that a client (C1) had access to alcohol and drugs at the facility. Confidential interviews disclosed that C1 was intoxicated, under the influence of drugs, and had passed out. Confidential interviews disclosed that facility staff did not provide C1 with alcohol or drugs. Confidential interviews revealed that another client (unknown) snuck a bottle of alcohol and drugs into the facility. R- STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION CCLD Regional Office, MAIN ST., SUITE FACILITY NAME: HARMONY HAVEN CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTERFACILITY NUMBER: VISIT DATE: 12/12/2024

Allegations:
- UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion:


raw_content:
Narrative:
Confidential interviews indicated that staff (S1) never sexually abused C1. Confidential interviews stated that it was never witnessed that S1 or any other staff member attempted to touch C1 or any other clients residing at the facility. Based on inconsistent confidential interviews and facility record review, the allegation that the Staff (S1) are sexually abusing youths (C1) in care is unsubstantiated. The allegation may have happened or is valid, but there is not a preponderance of the evidence to prove that the alleged violation occurred. An exit interview was conducted, appeal rights were explained, and a copy of this report was provided to Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center Regional Manager (RM) Heidi Lombardi..

Investigation Findings:
13On December 12, 2024, at 9:58 am, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Jose Gonzalez conducted an unannounced visit and met with Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center Regional Manager (RM) Heidi Lombardi to deliver the findings for the above-stated allegations. LPA Gonzalez inspected Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center at 9:32 am on July 29, 2024; no health and safety hazards were observed. LPA reviewed one client record (C1). During the investigation, interviews were conducted with Client #1 (C1) and Facility Staff (S1). On July 19, 2024, the Department received an allegation that the Staff (S1) were sexually abusing youths (C1) in care. Confidential interviews stated that S1 performed oral copulation on C1. Other confidential interviews stated that oral copulation never happened. . Confidential interviews stated that S1 was never alone with C1. Confidential interviews disclosed that there are cameras in the facility and that S1 and C1 were constantly monitored. Confidential interviews indicated that C1 was scheduled to complete a forensic interview on two separate occasions and that C1 declined to be interviewed both times. **CONT LIC 9099C* UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: SUPERVISORS NAME: Cheraki Davis LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Jose Gonzalez LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE: I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received. FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE: This report must be available at Child Care and Group Home facilities for public review for 3 years. LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)Page: 1 of Control Number 19-CR- STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION CCLD Regional Office, MAIN ST., SUITE FACILITY NAME: HARMONY HAVEN CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTERFACILITY NUMBER: VISIT DATE: 12/12/2024

Allegations:
- UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion:


raw_content:
Narrative:
Confidential interviews indicated that the staff member intervenes and separates all clients during a verbal argument or physical alteration. Confidential interviews indicated that the staff member is instructed to intervene and use "body positioning" during an argument or a client fight. Confidential interviews revealed that the staff member did provide C1 and other clients at the facility with a safe environment. Confidential interviews revealed that the staff member kept C1 and other clients safe at the facility. The Department also received an allegation that the facility staff (staff member unknown) inappropriately restrained a minor (C1). Confidential interviews revealed that the staff member is instructed to use Pro-ACT during unsafe situations with the clients. Confidential interviews stated that staff member is instructed to de-escalate the clients by taking them (clients) on a walk. Confidential interviews disclosed that staff member used physical restraint as a last resort for the client and staff member's safety. Based on inconsistent confidential interviews and facility record review, the allegations that the facility staff (staff member unknown) allowed group home minors to assault another minor (C1) while in care, staff (staff member unknown) did not provide a safe environment for minor (C1), and the facility staff (staff member unknown) inappropriately restrained minor (C1) are unsubstantiated. The allegation may have happened or is valid, but there is not a preponderance of the evidence to prove that the alleged violation occurred. An exit interview was conducted, appeal rights were explained, and a copy of this report was provided to Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center Regional Manager (RM) Heidi Lombardi.

Investigation Findings:
13On January 17, 2025, at 9:17 am, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Jose Gonzalez conducted an unannounced visit and met with Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center Regional Manager (RM) Heidi Lombardi to deliver the findings for the above-stated allegations. LPA Darlene Almaraz-Oseguera inspected Harmony Haven Children and Youth Center at 10:15 am on June 11, 2024; no health and safety hazards were observed. LPA reviewed three client's records (C1, C2, and C3). During the investigation, interviews were conducted with three clients (C1, C2, and C3), Staff #2 (S2), and the facility Regional Manager (RM). On June 7, 2024, the Department received an allegation that facility staff (staff member unknown) allowed group home minors (clients unknown) to assault another minor (C1) while in care, and staff (unknown) did not provide a safe environment for the minor (C1). Confidential interviews disclosed that FS allowed C1 to be assaulted by another client. Other confidential interviews disclosed that the staff member did not allow C1 to be assaulted by another client (clients unknown) in care.***CONTINUED on LIC 9099C*** UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: SUPERVISORS NAME: Cheraki Davis LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Jose Gonzalez LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE: I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received. FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE: This report must be available at Child Care and Group Home facilities for public review for 3 years. LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)Page: 1 of Control Number 19-CR- STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION CCLD Regional Office, MAIN ST., SUITE FACILITY NAME: HARMONY HAVEN CHILDREN AND YOUTH CENTERFACILITY NUMBER: VISIT DATE: 01/17/2025

Allegations:
- UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion:


facility_name: HARMONY HOUSE

raw_content:
Narrative:
Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, based on LPA's observations and interviews with residents and staff, there is not a preponderance of the evidence to prove the alleged violation(s) did or did not occur. Therefore, the allegation is Unsubstantiated. An exit interview was conducted, appeal rights provided, and a copy of this report left with Core Program Supervisor Damian Nomellini, whose signature on this form confirms receipt.

Investigation Findings:
UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: Estimated Days of Completion: Estimated Days of Completion:

Allegations:
- UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion:


raw_content:
Narrative:
Based on confidential interviews, four of the interviewees had relayed that there was a time that C1 was not received into the facility because the social worker had not arrived quickly. According to one of the confidential interviews, the interviewee felt that there was a mistake in calling the correct social worker's number and the number was corrected. Based on confidential interviews, the allegation that a staff member did not follow admission process for one client in care has not met the preponderance of doubt and is therefore unsubstantiated. LPA conducted an exit interview with Zeida Alvarez, Direct Care Staff at 1:50pm whose signature confirms the receipt of this document.

Investigation Findings:
13On 3/12/2024 at 1:38pm, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Selena Hood conducted an unannounced visit to the licensed facility. The purpose of this visit was to deliver the findings for the above allegation. LPA met with Zeida Alvarez, Direct Care Staff. LPA informed Damian Nomellini, Administrator, of the findings through a phone call. During the course of the investigation, LPA conducted five confidential interviews from 2/8/2024 and 3/11/2024. LPA attempted to contact one client's county caseworker three times, but the attempts were not successful. LPA reviewed the staff schedule, client files, staff training records, program statement, and incident reports. Based on the file review, the client involved had a history of unauthorized absences and was consistently informed of the return process. LPA observed two incident reports regarding unauthorized absences for the client in 2024. UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: SUPERVISORS NAME: Helga Wong LICENSING EVALUATOR NAME: Selena Hood LICENSING EVALUATOR SIGNATURE: I acknowledge receipt of this form and understand my licensing appeal rights as explained and received. FACILITY REPRESENTATIVE SIGNATURE: This report must be available at Child Care and Group Home facilities for public review for 3 years. LIC9099 (FAS) - (06/04)Page: 1 of Control Number 14-CR- STATE OF CALIFORNIA - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION REPORT (Cont)CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING DIVISION SAN BRUNO ASC, TRAEGER AVE., SUITE FACILITY NAME: HARMONY HOUSEFACILITY NUMBER: VISIT DATE: 03/12/2024

Allegations:
- UnsubstantiatedEstimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion: Unsubstantiated Estimated Days of Completion:

met_with: Zeida Alvarez