DOS reports $381,000 in ongoing add‑backs and distribution plan for 1,400 iPads

During the June 28 commission meeting, Deputy Director Cindy Kaufman (transcript: Kaufman/Kauffman variants) provided budget and program updates. She said DOS received $381,000 a year in ongoing local funding including $101,000 mayoral investment for the Senior Escorts program, $75,000 for adult‑based services in District 1, $100,000 for food access in District 11, and an $85,000 citywide allocation for Chinese‑language community connector services; a $20,000 technical correction was added for outreach in District 4.

Kaufman also described state grant allocations exceeding $4 million for fiscal year 2024, with earmarks including $371,000 for nutrition and $2.2 million for digital‑divide work that supports devices and digital literacy. She announced DOS recently received 1,400 iPads from the Department of Aging’s digital connections program; staff and SF Connected provider partners will inventory, configure and distribute devices and provide digital‑literacy training and tech support hours.

On IHSS policy changes, Kaufman explained that, effective July 1, the state implemented electronic visit verification (EVV) protocols that require many independent IHSS providers who do not live with recipients to check in/out and indicate service settings; the department’s Independent Provider Assistance Center (IPAC) phone line (415‑557‑6200) is available to help providers. Kaufman said providers who live with recipients and consumers themselves are not impacted and that no penalties attach to making corrections in the EVV system.

Commissioners asked about public celebration plans for Disability Pride Month and other outreach; Kaufman said staff were exploring options and would circulate details when available. The report closed with staff hiring announcements.