Codington County Human Services Reports High-Intensity Client Needs, Progress on Housing and Childcare Initiatives

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Codington County Community Services Director Sara Foust reported on service delivery, successful grant funding, and community-wide collaborative efforts focused on housing and childcare during the County Commission meeting last Tuesday.

Director Foust reported that while the number of clients served in October appeared slightly lower, the intensity level of need among current clients is higher than ever, requiring more time and resources per individual.

The office continues to manage funeral expenses for indigent clients, averaging one to two instances per month. Foust assured the Commissioners that the annual budget of $45,000 for this assistance remains on track, with only $18,000 having been utilized thus far. She noted that the federal South Dakota Cares funding program has ended.

Foust highlighted the program's success and future growth, which offers intensive case management and outreach.

·        Medicaid and Grant Reimbursement: Medicaid reimbursement for CHW services in October totaled $887.90, with an expected higher amount for November due to a catch-up in billing. The CHW Opioid Grant, which assists people with or at risk of opioid use disorder, reimbursed nearly $300 and is likely to become an annual funding opportunity.

·        Grant Increase: The Opioid Grant funding per CHW has increased from $15,000 to $20,000 for the upcoming year, potentially resulting in a $40,000 grant for the office. This funding is vital for covering services not reimbursed by other payers.

Focus on Community and Housing Goals

Foust's department is actively involved in several community development initiatives:

·        Interagency Collaboration: Foust attended an Early Learner Summit, a visioning session for the monastery grounds, and the Dakota Resources Community Building Conference, all aimed at supporting community-wide well-being. Sanford Family Planning was recognized as the agency of the month for its work supporting women in the community.

·        Housing Initiatives: The Human Services housing group is working to meet the community’s goal of a 3% growth rate in housing. The Director is pursuing federal funding opportunities through South Dakota Housing for transitional housing projects. The goal is to establish temporary housing that will directly help clients secure better long-term accommodations.

·        Childcare Assessment: The child care team is focused on reassessing the community's need for a new facility. The team will be updating a community survey to reevaluate the availability, affordability, and quality of existing childcare options. Foust noted that affordability remains a significant issue, impacting the local workforce.

·        Centralized Location: Codington Connects is finalizing its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status and is studying the feasibility of a centralized community services location, examining the costs of rent and overall affordability.