TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager, or designee, to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding, and any necessary documents including subsequent amendments, with the South Asian Helpline and Referral Agency (SAHARA), to address the needs of Elder Abuse Victims under the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services Elder Abuse (Cal OES XE) Grant Program. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
City Council approval is requested for the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the South Asian Helpline and Referral Agency (SAHARA), to address the needs of Elder Abuse Victims under the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services Elder Abuse (Cal OES XE) Grant Program.
The purpose of the partnership is to increase access to the justice system, reduce stigma, establish partnerships and collaboration, increase wellness through healthcare, promote mental and emotional health, and promote safety of all victims of abuse. SAHARA’s team will coordinate during the 12-month grant period to develop protocols for how the community will identify and coordinate services for elder and dependent adult victims of physical, sexual, emotional, financial abuse, abandonment, neglect, and institutional abuse.
LBPD will provide assistance to victims of criminal abuse referred by SAHARA and will refer South Asian clients to SAHARA for linguistic and culturally-appropriate assistance and support. In return, SAHARA will provide counseling and mental health therapy to elderly victims of abuse in emergency situations.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Sarah E. Green and Budget Management Officer Rhutu Amin Gharib on September 16, 2020.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on October 6, 2020, to ensure the MOU is in place expeditously.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal or local job impact associated with this recommendation. This recommendation has no staffing impact beyond the normal budgeted scope of duties and is consistent with existing City Council priorities.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
ROBERT G. LUNA
CHIEF OF POLICE
APPROVED:
THOMAS B. MODICA
CITY MANAGER