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while it may come as a surprise, is longstanding and largely due to a lack of coverage and the expense of provision. Councilmember McGovern asked the Commission to address whether the assessment is sufficient to guide the allocation of funding each year, as well as what other forms of providers or collaboration a strategic plan might include. Councilmember Sullivan asked the Commission to comment on the need relative to the available funding. Commissioner Jhanwar noted that one of the key findings was that 38% of respondents were not aware of the mechanisms with which to seek information on available services. Ms. Suskin said that respondents were not specifically asked how they obtain their information but that her experience is that it varies widely amongst communities. Latino communities rely very much on word of mouth and immigrant communities in general tend to have networks that communicate in this manner. Additional resources include the pocket guide as well as volunteer and faith-based initiatives. She noted a particular need from those new to the need circle who lack this type of network. Commissioner Wright said that many people accessing these types of services are in "crisis mode," which is not the same as the rational mindset used to develop this assessment or even how to address the need. She said that the real focus should be on providing simple, saturating information so the resources available become common knowledge. Commissioner Wilson said it was his understanding that DentiCal, which formerly met the dental needs of much of this population, has been completely discontinued. In working with Valley Mental Health, he has seen an increase in need because of the overall toll that unemployment can take. He also noted that disseminating information throughout the homeless community is that much more difficult, as they do not have the same access to informational resources. Commissioner Roby said RDA prepared a fantastic study that, from his perspective, does a phenomenal job of assisting the Commission in allocating grants to the various needs. The assessment also helps service providers to identify and serve truly relevant needs, which in turn simplifies the review process for the Commission. He also felt the assessment began to expose and address the issue of special needs children in a way that others have not. In terms of Axis Community Health, they have seen the request for services triple at the same time that reimbursements are decreasing and meeting the onslaught of increased demand has proven to be a phenomenal challenge. Commissioner Lambert said the Commission identified mental health, among others, as a priority issue. At the heart of it all is the need to improve awareness throughout the Tri-Valley. He also acknowledged the strong need for additional funding and asked the Council to consider that, as the General Fund level remains steady or increases, human services funding should increase. Commissioner Rowland said that the assessment serves as a valuable tool for shaping the funding agenda. She said the Commission has and will continue to exercise some creative thinking in terms of working within current constraints. Among the ideas that came from roundtable discussions was that of leveraging resources so that service providers can better stretch their dollars. In speaking with service providers and affected members of the community, the one consistent takeaway was that the Commission has a real opportunity to affect a change in the way that information is pushed out to the community. The Pleasanton School District, which serves as a pivotal part of most local families, has been repeatedly identified as a potential partner in these efforts. Mayor Hosterman asked and Ms. Yurchak confirmed that the 211 information hotline has been an effective resource but that too few are aware of it. Special City Council Minutes Page 3 of 5 January 24, 2012