September 2025 – Success Story

As counties across California continue implementing the CARE Act, there are some promising early successes that are emerging—including cross-agency collaboration, system alignment, and supporting clients in meaningful ways.

Stronger Collaboration:

Early implementation of the CARE Act across counties is demonstrating the power of cross-agency collaboration and system alignment. Counties are reporting stronger partnerships between courts, behavioral health agencies, and service providers, leading to clearer communication, better-defined roles, and more coordinated support for individuals in the CARE process. For example, Inyo County highlighted their enhanced collaboration and communication among partner agencies and courts. This foundation of collaboration is proving critical to ensuring that clients are guided through the system more effectively and compassionately.

Client Impact:

At the same time, counties are beginning to see positive outcomes for individuals enrolled in CARE, including reduced use of emergency services, successful transitions from more restrictive levels of care, and greater connection to ongoing treatment and support. San Francisco County for example has seen a successful step down from conservatorship and increased integration of clients into the broader system of care. They have indicated that the CARE Act is helping to reduce marginalization, improve client stability, and foster long-term engagement with care systems.