#United States #Centene Foundation #Health Net #Azusa

Addressing the Needs of Unhoused Seniors

In a significant development for the vulnerable demographic of unhoused seniors in Los Angeles County, Health Net, a leading Medi-Cal managed care health plan, has announced a substantial partnership with the Centene Foundation. This collaboration entails a generous investment of $7 million aimed at establishing The Wesley Azusa Housing Health Program. Scheduled to commence in 2026, this program will feature a 96-bed care facility designed specifically to meet the needs of seniors aged 55 and older who experience ongoing medical challenges and lack stable housing.

Comprehensive Care and Support Services

The new facility, set in Azusa, California, will span 27,300 square feet and provide a range of essential services that extend beyond basic shelter. Recognizing that health encompasses more than just access to medical care, Health Net aims to create a nurturing environment where seniors can find comfort and support. Services will include:

• - Primary medical care
• - Mental health services
• - Substance use counseling
• - On-site nutritious meals
• - Group therapy sessions
• - Psychiatry and medication management
• - Case management
• - Laundry facilities
• - Daily activities including arts, crafts, and gardening
• - Support from licensed clinical social workers

According to Dorothy Seleski, Medi-Cal President at Health Net, "Health begins with dignity." Seleski emphasizes that true wellness involves providing seniors with safe living conditions, nourishing food, and a sense of belonging and value within the community.

Impact on Vulnerable Populations

The initiative is a direct response to the pressing needs of unhoused seniors who often face multiple barriers to accessing health care. As Al Ballesteros, President and CEO of Wesley Health Centers, states, this partnership will ensure that vulnerable community members, including seniors and individuals with disabilities, not only have a roof over their heads but also access to critical healthcare services essential for their well-being.

This collaborative effort will involve partnerships with the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services and various community organizations to identify and assist unhoused individuals, facilitating immediate admission to the program.

A Model for Transformative Care

Los Angeles County Chair Pro Tem and First District Supervisor, Hilda L. Solis, lauds the initiative, noting that everyone deserves access to safe housing and healthcare. This investment symbolizes a progressive approach to health care wherein collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations can lead to transformative changes in the lives of the most vulnerable populations.

The Road Ahead

This partnership represents a significant chapter in Health Net’s ongoing commitment to community support. From 2017 to 2024, Health Net has devoted over $158 million to various community-based organizations, particularly focusing on housing-related initiatives. With an established network of over 117,000 providers, Health Net aims to create a supportive safety net for individuals who require medical attention, regardless of their circumstances.

Health Net, a subsidiary of Centene Corporation, asserts its belief that every individual deserves comprehensive healthcare, irrespective of age, income, or health status. With their consistent investment in community health initiatives, Health Net and the Centene Foundation are setting a precedent for future programs aimed at improving the lives of those in need.

Conclusion

The Wesley Azusa Housing Health Program is set to not only provide a safe haven for unhoused seniors in Los Angeles County but also offer the necessary medical care and support needed for them to regain stability in their lives. It is a promising step towards a more compassionate and inclusive healthcare system that prioritizes the health and dignity of every individual in the community.

For further information on Health Net and their community initiatives, visit Health Net’s official website.