Health and Human Services Fund

Every gift to the Health and Human Services (HHS) Fund helps a Long Beach neighbor in a tough spot. Donations ensure folks stay cared for and connected to essential services — one direct, immediate act of support at a time.

We Support Neighbors

Behind every statistic in Long Beach is a neighbor facing a crisis they didn't expect — a slashed tire that cuts off access to work, a benefits mix-up that threatens medical care, a housing transition with nowhere clear to turn. The HHS Fund's Direct Client Support initiative exists for exactly these unexpected moments: fast, flexible, dignity-centered assistance when a single unmet need could tip someone from stability into crisis.

We're looking toward the future — With HR 1 implementation around the corner and work requirements for CalFresh beneficiaries already in place, the demand for basic needs is expected to spike in the months and years to come. 

Direct Client Support provides funding of up to $1,000 per need to cover folks' basic needs that grant programs often can't support — medical transportation, health equipment, basic household items, and emergency assistance — resources that keep people connected to the care, benefits, and housing they depend on. Long Beach Health Department staff already know the person, the need, and what will actually help. With the HHS Fund, they can step in and provide these essential resources.

You're invited to join this life-changing work. Every gift helps us reach more neighbors before a small setback becomes a lasting one.

Community Impact 

Vondella's Story: 
Vondella, a Homeless Services Multi-Service Center client was very appreciative of the groceries and the bed provided by the HHS Fund. Patricia, Vondella's Health Department contact, shared that she is grateful that she can get a good night's rest now. Patricia said she is thankful that she could make a positive impact as Vondella transitions into more stable housing, emphasizing, "I haven't seen funding like this in the three years I have been working for Homeless Services. This is a great resource for every client who gets housed and needs basic necessities for their new home." Vondella and Patricia make it clear that HHS Fund support is an unprecedented lifeline for Health Department participants.

Glen's Story: 
"This support made all the difference," shared Glen, a 74-year-old Marine veteran and Healthy Aging Center client who relies on caregiver services to remain safely at home. When a transportation barrier put his Medi-Cal and CalFresh renewal at risk, Direct Client Support stepped in and provided medical transportation vouchers. "Without it, I don't know how I would have gotten care or kept everything on track." Stories like Glen's show how Direct Client Support resources bridge the gap between crisis and stability. 

Pat's Story:
Pat, a participant in the Health Department's Blank Infant Health program was trying to navigate caring for her baby and toddler while experiencing postpartum anxiety and depression. After losing her car, she struggled with feelings of isolation, since it was hard for her to get out of the house with her two children safely. The HHS Fund provided a double stroller for Pat, and she shared her gratitude: "I really appreciate this stroller [and] all you do for me and my kids. We went to the pool and park and [my 2-year-old] was the first to jump in as soon as we pulled it out. It's going to help us a lot just being able to get out more with the kids with less anxiety." Pat's case demonstrates how one simple item can allow for more mobility and a fuller, safer life experience.   

Your Impact

• $50 can cover a round-trip ride to a medical appointment or benefits office
• $250 can replace essential equipment like a walker or medical device
• $1,000 supports a two-month supply of food for a family of five experiencing hardship

Support Long Beach neighbors experiencing crisis, transition, or hardship with a donation today!