In a recent government meeting, Multnomah County officials approved a significant budget modification aimed at enhancing housing support through the Medicaid 1115 waiver. The Department of County Human Services (DCHS) received approval for a budget increase of $545,826, which will fund the Health Related Social Needs Program. This initiative is designed to provide rental assistance and tenancy support for individuals and families at risk of homelessness, particularly those meeting specific clinical criteria.

Rachel Pearl, DCHS Deputy Director, outlined the plan to utilize these funds to hire six temporary positions responsible for implementing and overseeing the housing program. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to address housing instability and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations in Multnomah County. The funding will allow for a comprehensive rollout of the housing benefits, which include six months of rental assistance.

Commissioners expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, highlighting its potential to significantly impact eviction prevention efforts. Commissioner Stegman noted the importance of utilizing Medicaid resources to support housing stability, while Commissioner Beeson emphasized the need for ongoing evaluation and sustainability of the program beyond its initial funding period.

Additionally, the meeting addressed a proposal for the health department to apply for a grant of up to $1 million annually for four years from the Oregon Health Authority's Alcohol and Drug Prevention and Treatment Services Grant Program. This funding aims to enhance access to care for individuals struggling with substance use disorders and will support the establishment of an outreach team to facilitate deflection programming, which aims to divert individuals from the criminal justice system into treatment.

The commissioners unanimously supported both initiatives, recognizing their potential to improve community health and stability in Multnomah County. The DCHS plans to provide further updates on the implementation of the Medicaid waiver and the outcomes of the grant application as the projects progress.