Mendocino County Advances Community Outreach and Support Initiatives

The Mendocino County Board of Supervisors is advancing efforts to strengthen community services, expand access to behavioral health resources, and create employment opportunities through two initiatives led by Mendocino County Health Services.

At its September 1, 2026, meeting, the Board considered the Community Outreach Response and Engagement (CORE) 2.0 pilot program, designed to provide coordinated behavioral health outreach, housing stabilization, and supportive services for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

CORE 2.0 will initially establish two multidisciplinary outreach and stabilization teams to connect residents with mental health and substance use treatment, housing navigation, benefits assistance, and ongoing care coordination. The program includes six positions supporting field-based outreach, clinical services, and community stabilization.

The initiative is supported through funding sources including Medi-Cal, grants, opioid settlement funds, and Measure B, and aligns with the County's strategic priority for creating a safe and healthy community.

At its October 20, 2026, meeting, the Board also considered a $245,866.89 agreement with Friend of Boon to support the Community Cleanup and Employment Pathway (CCEP) Grant. The initiative focuses on community cleanup, habitat restoration, and workforce development while providing employment and training opportunities for individuals experiencing homelessness, justice-involved individuals, at-risk youth, and underemployed residents.

Through the proposed agreement, Friend of Boon would coordinate cleanup and restoration activities, workforce training, and community engagement efforts, with Mendocino County Health Services providing administrative oversight and program monitoring.

Together, these initiatives reflect Mendocino County's ongoing commitment to strengthening community partnerships, connecting residents with essential resources, and creating opportunities for greater stability and independence.

Download the full press release HERE.