Access to Health Care and Nutrition Benefits

Health Care Access

Expand existing project, program, or initiative

Inequities in access to and use of health care as well as social factors, contribute to disparities in health. Healthy People 2030 reports that those without health insurance are less likely to have a regular healthcare provider and more likely to skip routine check-ups, putting them at higher risk for serious health problems. Ethnic minorities, immigrants, and the homeless are especially impacted and don't always apply for these resources due to multiple barriers, including complexities of the application process and systems, lack of understanding of eligibility rules, language, literacy, misinformation, transportation and technology access, climates of fear and mistrust, and stigmas. Furthermore, ongoing changes with public benefit programs such as Medi-Cal and CalFresh cause additional confusion. Moreover, about one in ten California households lack the resources to meet their food needs, with a greater disproportionate number of people of color.

StLRS provides free, multilingual, hybrid services to families throughout L.A. County to access health care and nutrition benefits, with special focus on vulnerable populations experiencing ongoing problems with poverty, healthcare, and food insecurity. We also refer clients to organizations that help with other resources so that everyone, regardless of their income, legal status, or zip code has what they need to live a healthier life. StLRS' team reaches vulnerable populations with our mobile office, tabling, and presentation activities at open air markets, food distributions, fairs, schools, churches, and partnerships with businesses, such as medical and dental clinics, and other nonprofits serving the same populations. Through our one-stop wraparound model, StLRS offers multiprogram eligibility screenings, education about qualifications, addressing clients' fears and concerns, helping them understand their documentation requirements and responsibilities. Enrollers complete client applications and support them through every step of the process, including troubleshooting, advocacy, education about benefits, enrollment in a managed care plan, and application renewal and re-enrollment. Lastly, StLRS provides limited financial assistance to select clients who are in dire need of paying for food, housing, and bills while their benefit applications are being processed.

Since the Affordable Care Act was introduced, we have seen improved health care access and a lower rate of preventable hospital stays - something that can be very costly for people experiencing poverty. Social support is also identified as a key component of strong psychological health. However, more remains to be done for vulnerable populations. StLRS' one stop wraparound model has proven effective in reducing the number of people living in poverty without access to these critical benefits. In July 2023, we will begin implementing a Strategic Plan that will guide the organization's direction for the next 3 years, focusing in 4 strategic goals: 1) Improve organizational capacity and ensure effectiveness; 2) Enhance awareness in communities about StLRS; 3) Refine programs and deliverables; and 4) Expand and diversify revenue. With support from this grant, StLRS will implement these goals to expand services, and enhance the health and well-being of more vulnerable populations in L.A.

StLRS uses a customized Client Management Tracking System (CMTS) database to record, monitor, and generate reports of client screenings, applications, enrollment, retention, advocacy, outreach activities, referrals of community resources, and case management activity. Staff track and assess data for purposes of documenting results, identifying areas of improvement, monitoring progress toward measurable objectives, and proactively refining the program. For example, in FY 2022, StLRS attended 97 outreach activities and events, conducted 7,451 individual multiprogram screenings, submitted 1,196 health benefits and CalFresh applications with a success rate of approximately 88%. By the end of the 3rd quarter of FY2023, health benefit and CalFresh applications have increased to 1540 with a success rate above 90%. StLRS also shares impact through "Client Success Stories" on our website, social media, and a monthly e-newsletter.

DePaul USA's Casa Milagrosa is a day resource center for thousands of women, men, and children experiencing homelessness in L.A. County. Located in the Westlake/MacArthur Park neighborhood of the City of Los Angeles, Casa Milagrosa will provide StLRS with space in their facilities and access to the population they serve so that StLRS staff can have a regular presence and assist their clients with our comprehensive wraparound support accessing health care and nutrition benefits. Their central location in the City of Los Angeles allows StLRS the opportunity to expand our presence and accessibility to serve a community with a growing population with dire need for health care, nutrition, and other critical services to live healthier and more stable lives.