CenCal Health, a nonprofit administering Medi-Cal in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, serves one-third of Santa Barbara County and one-fourth of San Luis Obispo County residents. Under CEO Marina Owen, the organization has launched an ambitious initiative—CalAIM (California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal)—to improve health equity, efficiency, and whole-person care.

As part of this effort, CenCal Health has built over 70 community partnerships, significantly enhancing local health outcomes. A key partner is the 5Cities Homeless Coalition, which plays a central role in providing housing and support services to individuals experiencing homelessness. These partnerships have allowed organizations like 5CHC and Good Samaritan Shelter to expand services such as enhanced care management, housing navigation, and recuperative care.

Through collaboration, unhoused individuals not only gained access to vital health services but were also able to secure and retain housing—demonstrating the practical and transformative impact of coordinated community support.

Additionally, CenCal Health has reached 40,000 K-12 students with expanded mental health services and screened 25,000 for behavioral health concerns, aiming to improve educational outcomes and prevent school-to-prison transitions.

Looking ahead, CenCal is preparing its next strategic plan, with a focus on sustainability amidst potential funding uncertainties. Still, the organization remains committed to supporting vulnerable populations through strong local partnerships and innovative care models.

Staff Writer Emma Montalbano can be reached at [email protected].