Commission approves $3.6M grant to Stepping Stone for enhanced adult day care services

The San Francisco City Commission convened on July 4, 2025, to discuss significant initiatives aimed at enhancing community health services for vulnerable populations. The meeting primarily focused on two key agenda items: a grant for enhanced care coordination and the establishment of an online resource directory.

The first item addressed was a request for approval of a sole source waiver and authorization to enter into a new grant with Stepping Stone Adult Day Healthcare. This grant, amounting to $3,278,345 plus a 10% contingency, totals $3,606,180 and will fund enhanced care coordination services for frail, low-income older adults and adults with disabilities from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2027. Fannie Lapitan, program manager with the Office of Community Partnerships, presented the initiative, emphasizing its role in helping participants maintain successful community living and avoid institutional care. The program will provide comprehensive services, including individualized care plans, medication management, and social engagement, alongside additional clinical support and behavioral health services tailored to the needs of participants.

Commissioners raised questions regarding the transition of oversight from the San Francisco Department of Public Health to the Department of Disability and Aging Services (DOS), with the rationale being the specific focus on older adults and individuals with disabilities. The discussion highlighted the importance of this model in addressing the needs of recently unhoused individuals and ensuring they receive necessary support services.

The second agenda item involved a proposal to authorize a contract with Unite Us for the development of an online resource directory. This initiative, with a budget of $798,750 plus a 10% contingency, aims to create a comprehensive platform that connects residents with essential services. Cindy Kaufman, deputy director of community services, outlined the project's dual-phase approach: the first phase will establish the resource directory, while the second phase will facilitate referrals and service linkages. The directory is designed to be user-friendly, featuring a person-centered design that allows individuals to search for services without needing prior knowledge of specific terminology.

Commissioners expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting its potential to streamline access to services and improve overall community health outcomes. The platform will also provide valuable data for identifying resource gaps within the city, aiding in future planning and service allocation.

Both initiatives received unanimous approval from the commission, marking a significant step forward in enhancing health and social services for San Francisco's most vulnerable populations. The meeting concluded with a commitment to follow up on the implementation timelines and language accessibility for the online resource directory.