#USA #Long Beach #Centene Foundation #Health Net

Expansion of Long Beach Community Care Campus

The Long Beach Community Care Campus is set to undergo a substantial transformation thanks to a recent $10 million investment from the Centene Foundation and Health Net. This investment aims to enhance access to integrated health care and housing solutions for individuals experiencing homelessness in the region. With a focus on improving health outcomes and accelerating pathways to stable housing, this expansion represents a significant step forward for community health services.

Investment Breakdown

The $10 million investment comprises two main components:

• - A $5 million contribution from the Centene Foundation, directed primarily towards modernizing the facility; and
• - An equal contribution of $5 million from Health Net, intended to fund tenant improvements and the development of new programs aligned with California's CalAIM initiative.

These enhancements include the establishment of a dedicated recuperative care program tailored for children and families. According to Dorothy M. Seleski, Medi-Cal Plan President at Health Net, this investment highlights the vital connection between healthcare and stable housing, fostering a community-oriented approach to support individuals and families in Long Beach.

Comprehensive Care Model

The Community Care Campus is described as a comprehensive and integrated care center that aims to serve thousands of residents annually. It is designed to deliver not only medical care but also recuperative services that promote long-term stability and well-being. The planned renovations will expand the facility's capability to provide these essential services.

Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson voiced strong support for the initiative, emphasizing the intertwined nature of housing and health: "In Long Beach, we know that housing and health go hand-in-hand, which is why we're committed to thoughtful, community-based solutions."

Financial and Structural Improvements

The $5 million investment by Health Net will cater to necessary tenant improvements, helping to comply with the requirements for new services at the campus. This includes modernization features such as:

• - The renovation and demolition of approximately 5,000 square feet dedicated to the Children and Families Recuperative Care program.
• - Upgrades in electrical installations, elevator systems, fire safety measures, and improvements to accessibility to meet compliance standards for CalAIM programs and urgent medical services.

Broader Impact and Funding Model

The Community Care Campus is poised to benefit from a diverse funding model that encompasses reimbursements from various healthcare managed care plans, hospital systems, and collaborations with Los Angeles County health departments. This multifaceted funding strategy is essential to ensure sustainable services that meet community needs throughout the year.

In its fully operational phase, the facility anticipates serving thousands of individuals and families, thereby potentially reducing the incidence of health crises through timely intervention and ongoing support.

Senator Lena Gonzalez also emphasized the importance of the project, stating, "This investment demonstrates our commitment to providing real solutions for our neighbors experiencing homelessness."

Future Outlook

As the renovations progress, Encompass Housing will monitor outcomes related to housing stability and health equity, providing biannual reports that underscore the commitment to quality improvement and accountability.

Deby Wolford, CEO of Encompass Housing, expressed optimism about this partnership, stating, "This transformative grant allows us to provide integrated medical care, behavioral health, and housing services to individuals in need."

A phased construction plan aims to minimize disruptions to existing services while enhancing the overall capability of the Community Care Campus. With design and planning initiated in May 2025, the project is anticipated to complete by September 2027, paving the way for a more stable and healthy Long Beach community.

Conclusion

The expansion of the Long Beach Community Care Campus signifies more than just a construction project; it embodies a commitment to connecting healthcare services with housing support, ensuring a comprehensive approach to community health. As organizations like Health Net and the Centene Foundation collaborate with local bodies, the potential for transformative impact on the lives of Long Beach residents is immense. The initiative stands as a model for how focused investments can forge pathways to sustainability and improved health outcomes for vulnerable populations.