Centering health, connection, & care

Health Approaches

The approaches that we promote support individual and public health, respect human rights, and are always based in evidence. Scroll to see some of the most critical interventions that our partners are spearheading across California.

  • These programs are backed by strong evidence, from case studies to randomized control trials. We urge investments into programs that work and divestment from money drains that cycle people from homelessness to jails to emergency rooms and back.

  • No person should ever be forced into a jail-like environment just for using substances. The approaches below center autonomy and emphasize voluntary, rights-based, and person-centered care.

  • People need on-demand, low-barrier, high-quality care that is tailored to their needs, experiences, and goals. Reducing barriers ensures that people can access the care they need, when they need it.

  • Person-centered and compassionate care is at the heart of health-centered approaches. By meeting people where they are and offering services that work for them, we can ensure that all Californians have access to the resources they need to thrive.

Street medicine

Street-based medicine brings care directly to those who need it, building trust and relationships with medical providers.

Low-barrier access to addiction treatment

Medication for addiction treatment (MAT), contingency management, and other forms of addiction treatment save live—if people can access them.

Evidence-based education

Prevention curricula should center knowledge and youth agency, rather than the debunked “just say no” approach that propagates fear and misinformation.

Mobile crisis response

Mobile crisis teams respond to individuals with resources and compassion, so people in crisis can call for help without fear of a police response.

Drug checking

Drug checking is a simple way to reduce overdose deaths by giving people who use drugs the information they need to keep themselves safe.

Peer-led outreach services

Peers offer non-judgmental, low-barrier support that engages people who might otherwise avoid seeking resources.

Supportive housing

Supportive housing gives people recovering from challenges the stability and support they need to maintain housing and recover on their own terms.