problem solving assistance funds

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Senior Problem Solver

• Implement the Problem-Solving intervention throughout the Family Solution Center
• Work with case managers in interim housing settings to support the integration of Problem-Solving in their work 
• Ensure all Family Solution Center staff have been officially trained on Problem-Solving
• Work with the LAHSA Problem-Solving Unit to streamline Problem Solving Assistance Funds requests and intervention updates 
• Ensure Problem-Solving Tracking is happening across the Family Solution Center 
• Work with key partner family systems to integrate Problem-Solving further upstream from the Coordinated Entry System to reduce in-flow 
• Act as the initial point of contact for families experiencing homelessness
• Using a collaborative, participant-centric, strengths-based, trauma-informed approach and a range of services, services techniques (such as mediation) and short-term assistance, support families in avoiding entry to shelter or the experience of street homelessness (e.g. helping those seeking services to safely remaining in their current living situation, or identify immediate alternate, safe housing arrangements).
• Screen and engage in problem solving intervention with families referred through the 211 system, partner providers, access points and through the Family Solution Center
• Engage participants in problem solving dialogue to assess for additional resources accessible within the participant’s own network.
• Analyze information, problems, situations, practices or procedures in order to define the issues/challenges, relevant factors or concerns to accomplish success.
• Recognizing each service seeker’s unique strengths, support youth to look for creative solutions that can be quickly implemented.
• Must be able to problem solve a variety of complex issues, and always maintain a high level of professionalism while doing so.
• Implement immediate crisis housing plan, including diversion to family and friends, placement in a shelter or interim housing, linkage to permanent housing, and/or alternative housing resources
• Engage in deliberate thoughtful and individualized conversation(s) that seek to solve the families immediate and/or near-term housing crisis
• Utilize active listening, coaching, motivational interviewing, mediation, and conflict resolution with families/friends and/or Landlords, connection to mainstream resources, housing search assistance, housing stabilization planning, and family reunification
• Negotiate when appropriate with family, friends, and landlords to keep families from entering the homeless system
• Connect individuals to supportive services such as health, mental health, mainstream benefits, education and vocational assistance.
• Connect participants with appropriate partner agencies through referrals and follow-up to ensure connections are made.
• Provide crisis intervention assistance as needed.
• Based on the information collected during the assessment process and using the HMIS System and CES protocol, make authorized, prioritized referrals into housing programs and CES Housing Navigation services.
• Conduct immediate and longer-term follow up to ascertain the effectiveness of problem-solving activities.
• Track and report progress and services for each participant receiving problem-solving assistance and the project as a whole.
• Develop and maintain a complete, accurate, and current file with all required documents and data in agency records and electronic database, HMIS. Includes updates to changes in income and any demographic domain. Maintain confidentiality of participant files per HIPAA and all applicable guidelines
• Document services provided within 24 hours
• Draft monthly reports on service numbers, participants served, and achievements as well as other pertinent quantitative outcomes to program Director, and other executive staff and Coordinated Entry external partners as requested.
• Provide professional, accessible and culturally relevant support, advocacy and information to program participants.
• Work within and promote the integrated services team model in an environment dedicated to harm reduction, recovery and wellness.
• Engage effectively and constructively with the program manager to make program refinements in the best interests of service users
• Ensure services to participants are reflective of customer choice and emphasize housing first, harm reduction and trauma-informed care models
• Use effective communication skills such as active and reflective listening to build rapport. Utilize appropriate motivational interviewing interventions to increase positive outcomes
• Liaise with other providers within the agency, as well as outside to formulate strength-based strategies that focus on housing retention and general wellness
• Participate in staff meetings, individual and group supervision, case conferences and training as required
• Adhere to agency policies and procedures including confidentiality, child abuse reporting, and code of ethics
• Additional tasks, projects and or responsibilities as assigned by Supervisor that are not outlined but which are an important part of the agency’s goals and/or program outcomes
• Clear understanding of the concepts of Housing First, Harm Reduction, Trauma Informed Care, Motivational Interviewing, and the Coordinated Entry System
• Knowledge and understanding of policy, systems, and local programs that impact homeless persons and related public funding sources, regulations, requirements, and procedures
• Knowledge of best practice models for assisting homeless people with varying degrees of needs/conditions and have a strong understanding of contractual requirements/compliance and applicable performance measures
• Knowledge of issues facing homeless individuals (e.g. chronic health, substance abuse, mental health, domestic abuse and resources for undocumented individuals)
• Knowledge of community social service agencies and resources
• Work effectively under conditions of limited supervision, high stress and rapidly changing situations and circumstances
• Ability to handle common problems without supervisor intervention while knowing when supervisor participation is warranted
• Must be able to exercise initiative, independent good judgment, flexibility, discretion, and solid decision making
• Ability to respond quickly and effectively to individuals who may be ill, using substances, lack of personal care, in crisis situations and/or potentially hostile situations
• Ability to work with a diverse population and provide culturally competent advocacy
• Actively promote positive, nurturing interactions between participants and employees
• Ability to deescalate aggressive/agitated individuals
• Able to take appropriate steps to deal with emergency situations with the goal of maintaining the safety of all participants
• Must be able to successfully manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, adjust to changing; circumstances, and demonstrate confidence working with diverse stakeholders
• Demonstrate the ability to utilize strong judgement and interpersonal skills to manage sensitive participant interactions including with those who may be in distress with acute illness, substance use issues, co-morbidity of behavioral and physical health issues in addition to homelessness
• Project a professional demeanor and a high level of professionalism when dealing with sensitive matters
• Outstanding communication skills, both written and oral; must communicate professionally and positively with participants, co-workers, management, community partners, employers, landlords, and other service providers
• Promote cooperation and commitment within a team to achieve goals and objective; collaborate with team members, sharing ideas and differences openly; be receptive to new ideas and adapt to change as necessary
• Strict confidentiality must be observed as it relates to participant information, agency business, program decisions and all other personal information
• Considers impact of personal and professional choices. Consistently make decisions in keeping with organizational values and Supervisor’s direction
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to follow through from beginning to end on tasks
• Proficient with office communication equipment and machines (telephone, copier, calculator, fax machine, personal computer, laptop, computer printer and scanner)
• Proficient in use of laptop/desktop computer, Microsoft Windows and Office software programs (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and Google drive
• Strong time management skills and the ability to multi-task and prioritize in a fast-paced environment, while exercising sound judgment
• Ability to work a flexible schedule; including nights, days, weekends and holidays
• Ability to respond to emergencies some evenings and weekends as necessary
• Use of a personal vehicle may be required to travel in and around Antelope Valley and/or Los Angeles County and periodically transport participants
• Maintain professional boundaries and work collaboratively with participants, volunteers and staff
• Accountability – be on time for scheduled shifts
• Be able to read and write English
• Bilingual Preferred but not required
• High School Graduate or equivalent
• Bachelor’s Degree in Social/Human Services or related field, strongly preferred
• Minimum two year experience in a Case Management role with experience in a nonprofit setting at an agency that services victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, or other vulnerable populations, and/or homeless, mentally ill, substance-using, or dually-diagnosed people is required
• Experience in social services field; preferably working with homeless programs in a non-profit setting
• Experience with Homeless Management Information System (HMIS)
• Education may be substituted by years of experience 
• Must have a valid California Driver’s License
• Reliable transportation
• Auto Insurance
• Clean driving record
• Employee will be required to complete a TB test, fingerprinting, drug screen (employment pending on drug screen, background and Motor Vehicle Report review), 72-hour Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault training and CPR/First Aid certification.
• May be in contact with individuals in crisis who may be ill, using substances and/or not be attentive to personal hygiene and safety for themselves
• May experience unpleasant sensory demands associated with an individual’s use of alcohol and drugs, and lack of personal care
• May experience crises and potentially hostile situations, must be ready to respond quickly and effectively.

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OUR MISSION

Valley Oasis is a community based organization dedicated to eliminating social and domestic violence and homelessness through community awareness, intervention, prevention, safe shelter, and supportive services.

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For more than 33 years, Antelope Valley Domestic Violence Council, now known as Valley Oasis, has devoted its energy to passionately advocating for the hurt, needy and politically under-represented members of the Antelope Valley.

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Problem-Solving Assistance Fund RFP

Job details.

Problem-Solving Assistance RFP

Scope of program:   

The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) is looking for contractors who will disperse the Problem-Solving Assistance Fund, which is a financial assistance service that includes move-in assistance, rental arrears, emergency housing assistance, grocery cards, employment assistance, and other items that will help participants rapidly resolve their housing crisis or homelessness.  

Grantee qualifications:  

Government agencies, for-profit vendors, and non-profits certified as qualified bidders with LAHSA may submit applications to disperse the fund. 

The list of qualified bidders can be viewed at the following link under RFSQ Documents (See:  RFSQ Exhibit I - Certified Agencies & Funding Sources):   

https://www.lahsa.org/news?article=214-request-for-statement-of-qualifications-rfsq-for-certification-as-a-qualified-bidder-for-lahsa-funding-opportunities  

Instructions on how to become a LAHSA qualified bidder can also be viewed at the link above. 

Application instructions:  

Applicants are required to register by 2 p.m. (Pacific Time), March 26, 2019 

Register here:  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Z8MR2J6

Proposers may apply by following these instructions:  https://www.lahsa.org/news?article=520-2019-problem-solving-assistance-fund-rfp  

Due date:  

2 p.m. (Pacific Time), April 18, 2019 

About the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA):  LAHSA is a joint powers authority of the city and county of Los Angeles, created in 1993 to address the problems of homelessness in Los Angeles County. LAHSA is the lead agency in the HUD-funded Los Angeles Continuum of Care, and coordinates and manages over $300 million annually in federal, state, county, and city funds for programs providing shelter, housing, and services to people experiencing homelessness. 

Contact Information

Table of Contents

Lahsa's coordinated entry system  .

CES Access Center Directory 

Interim Housing

Homeless prevention program .

Guide to Submitting a Problem-Solving Assistance Request Form 

Problem-Solving Program 

Providers with HMIS Access

Poviders without HIMIS Access

Assistance Request Form 

What is Problem Solving?

Who is Eligible?

Safe Parking List 

The Safe Parking Program provides vehicle dwellers with a safe and legal place to park and sleep at night.

Safe Parking Referral From

Homeless Outreach 

Homeless access centers & shelters.

LA-HOP is designed to assist people experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles County with outreach services. We’ll use this information to dispatch a homeless services outreach team to the area.

LA-HOP Request

Rental Listing 

Affordable housing resources links, project place affordable housing opportunities.

Housing.LACounty

Affordable Housing

HUD Affordable Rental Housing

LACDA Public Housing

Housing Offices 

Public housing authorities locations, find your local public housing agency (pha) .

If you need public housing assistance or would like specific information about public housing programs such as housing choice vouchers, please contact your local Public Housing Agency.

Housing Per Population 

Domestic violence shelters.

DV Shelters

DPSS DV Shelters

Public Heath DV Housing Programs

LAHSA Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV)

Youth 18-24 Housing

LA Family Housing

Door Of Hope

Hope Through Housing Foundation

Housing Community Development

Transitional Housing 

Sober livings, shared housing, emergency housing, more shared housing, re-entry breaking barriers, housing guides, coordinated entry core elements, rapid re-housing toolkit, an affordable home on re-entry, housing links.

Housing Authority City of LA

LA Housing Department

LAHSA Issues Two Requests For Proposals

Lahsa issues rfps for the problem-solving assistance fund and an evaluation of transitional housing .

Los Angeles, CA (March 22, 2019)—The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) has issued requests for proposals to fund the dispersion of the Problem-Solving Assistance Fund and an evaluation of transitional housing programs that serve young people.

The Problem-Solving Assistance Fund is a financial assistance service that includes move-in assistance, rental arrears, emergency housing assistance, grocery cards, employment assistance, and other items that will help participants rapidly resolve their housing crisis or homelessness. Government agencies, for-profit vendors, and non-profits certified as qualified bidders with LAHSA may submit applications to disperse the fund. Instructions on how to become a LAHSA qualified bidder can be viewed here . Applicants are required to register by 2 p.m. (Pacific Time), March 26, 2019. Application instructions can be viewed here . The submission deadline is 2 p.m. (Pacific Time), April 18, 2019.

The transitional housing evaluation will look at the effectiveness of the transitional housing model for young people ages 18-24. Researchers, research organizations, public or private colleges or universities, and not-for-profit or for-profit agencies may submit proposals for the evaluation. Applicants are required to attend the proposers webinar 10 a.m.-12 p.m. (Pacific Time), April 2, 2019. RSVP here . Application instructions can be viewed here . The submission deadline is 2 p.m. (Pacific Time), April 19, 2019.

LAHSA is a joint powers authority of the city and county of Los Angeles, created in 1993 to address the problems of homelessness in Los Angeles County. LAHSA is the lead agency in the HUD-funded Los Angeles Continuum of Care, and coordinates and manages more than $300 million annually in federal, state, county, and city funds for programs providing shelter, housing, and services to people experiencing homelessness. For more information visit www.lahsa.org.

Please call 2-1-1 and press 8 for homelessness information and services near you.

CoC Expands Access to 2-1-1, Community Resources

By Sacramento Steps Forward

Known as Rapid Access and Problem Solving (RAPS), this pilot builds on best practices of addressing homelessness early and increases our community’s ability to more quickly intervene in a person’s episode of homelessness. It has been initially funded for up to four years, with an option to evaluate and continue the program after the first year. 

After connecting with 2-1-1, people with low service needs can be  immediately assisted so that they can avoid entering the homeless response system altogether. People with moderate or high service needs will be connected to additional vulnerability assessments, which then helps determine the appropriate resources for their needs. 

“This project creates an expanded front door for people experiencing homelessness,” said SSF CEO Lisa Bates. “Thanks to one-time state funds, we are able to increase access to resources, and offer a critical lifeline for people who need immediate help to ensure better outcomes for our most vulnerable neighbors.”  

The Sacramento CoC has allocated $1.5 million in state funding to RAPS which introduces two major changes to the county’s network of resources:  

• Support the creation of three new full-time care coordinator positions at 2-1-1, Sacramento’s main connection point to resources for people experiencing homelessness. This additional capacity will allow staff to complete client assessments immediately by phone, significantly reducing wait times for connections to services. 
• Support four selected agencies to serve as access points to provide problem-solving and short-term housing-related financial assistance to existing clients and clients referred from 2-1-1. Through problem-solving, providers work with individuals or families to find ways to maintain their current housing or immediately identify safe alternatives. Short-term financial support could include rental assistance or a security deposit. 

Through a competitive process, we have selected four established agencies in our community to take on this problem-solving work: The Sacramento LGBTQ Community Center, South Sacramento Homeless Assistance Resource Team, Sacramento Self Help Housing, and WEAVE . 

These new partnerships and the CoC’s investment in diversion and access is a critical step towards enhancing our network of resources and driving system-wide change to reduce the number of people entering homelessness and expedite their returns to housing. 

Visit this webpage for more information about how people experiencing homelessness are connected to resources through the coordinated entry system. 

Sacramento Steps Forward is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) charity serving the Sacramento region. EIN# 27-4907397