HSA unveils 2022'2026 strategic plan emphasizing equity, workforce and 'no-wrong-door' service model

Susie Smith, deputy director for policy, planning and public affairs at the San Francisco Human Services Agency, presented the agency's integrated 2022'1026 strategic plan to the Department of Disability and Aging Services Commission, saying, "We envision a San Francisco where everyone has the opportunity and support to achieve their full potential." The commission received the informational presentation during its June meeting.

The 12-page plan lays out five strategic goals: equity, inclusion and accessibility; a strong workforce and collaboration; employment and economic security; health and well-being; and safety and care. Smith said the plan is the agency's first fully integrated framework across both major departments and their shared administrative infrastructure.

Smith told commissioners the plan aims to make HSA services easier to navigate by promoting a "no wrong door" model so residents seeking one service can be connected to others they need. The presentation highlighted programmatic priorities including expansion of the "Museums for All" partnership to increase cultural access for low-income clients, workforce supports such as ReServe wage subsidies, and pilots to work with immigrant-led organizations in Chinese and Latinx communities to rebuild trust and increase benefits enrollment.

Commissioners focused questions on implementation details and outreach. Several members praised the plan's format and emphasis on staff support. On data and access, commissioners asked about the digital divide and whether expanded online tools were increasing participation; the advisory council had noted roughly 15% online access at some senior sites. Smith described partnerships to address uneven Wi-Fi and device access and said outreach will be culturally tailored.

A short launch video could not be played over WebEx during the meeting; staff said the video and slides would be distributed to commissioners and the public after the meeting. The commission did not vote on the plan at the meeting; Smith and HSA staff said they will share the plan publicly and continue rollout with city stakeholders, community-based organizations and HSA staff.

Next steps: HSA will distribute the plan materials and follow up on pilot designs, outreach strategies and the mayor's budget process, which Smith and staff said would inform specific allocations tied to the plan.