title
SJ CARES UPDATE
recommended action
RECOMMENDATION
Informational item only.
body
Summary
The San Joaquin County CARES (SJ CARES) initiative is a program implemented and staffed by the San Joaquin County Probation Department. Designed to connect vulnerable residents with critical services, SJ CARES has proven to be a lifeline for hundreds of individuals and families since 2024.
In 2024-2025, the SJ CARES outreach teams made more than 4,400 points of contact, engaging with 770 unique individuals across the County. To date, more than 400 people have been directly linked to supportive services ranging from behavioral health and medical care to housing assistance. Through these efforts, 85 individuals have transitioned off the streets, with many securing permanent housing and being reunified with family members. This demonstrates the trust and success in the program’s person-centered approach.
The San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors launched SJ CARES to address homelessness, public safety, and behavioral health through innovative, collaborative strategies. By pairing probation services with community outreach, the program shows that accountability and compassion can generate meaningful impact.