AGENDA & REPORT - Laserfiche WebLink

provided additional local data. In September 2011, community meetings were held in each of the three (3) communities with over 70 people in attendance. In December 2011, the draft Needs Assessment was made available for public review and comment. As a result of all the information obtained through RDA's research, 14 areas of concern are addressed in the final document including: Community Issues, Service Delivery Environment, Current Gaps in Services or Barriers to Improving Service, and Suggestions for Improvement. The attached document, the "Eastem Alameda County 2011 Human Services Needs Assessment: Findings Report" makes several conclusions and recommendations related to the human services provision in the Tri- Valley. Conclusions: • The demand for human services is increasing at the same time those resources to provide services are diminishing. • Public transportation limitations present a significant barrier to residents seeking human services. • An increase in ethnic diversity and linguistic isolation creates a barrier to accessing services and organizations are struggling to adjust. • There is not enough affordable housing to meet the growing demand. • Increased homelessness has amplified the demand for temporary shelters. • There are not enough Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drug Services located in the region. • There is insufficient extended care, after school, and summer programming in the Tri - Valley to support the social development of children and youth. • There are insufficient workforce development opportunities in the Tri - Valley, particularly for women, seniors, youth, and the disabled. Recommendations: • Develop a strategic plan based on findings from the Eastern Alameda County 2011 Human Services Needs Assessment: Findings Report • Increase collaboration to improve outcomes for individual and communities • Focus on Outreach • Embrace the Growing Diversity in the Region • Support the Next Generation of Young Adults Staff is asking for feedback from the City Council and the Human Services Commission on the Eastern Alameda County 2011 Human Services Needs Assessment Findings Report and its related conclusions and recommendations. It would also be helpful if the City Council and Human Services Commission indicate to staff any additional information they will need prior to its formal adoption. Page 3 of 4