$32M Investment in BACS Will Bring Major New Mental Health Center to Hayward

A historic $32 million investment is bringing a major new mental health facility to Alameda County. BACS is proud to lead the creation of the Waypoint Mental Health Rehabilitation Center in Hayward, which will add 83 urgently needed mental health beds to the region. This project is made possible through support from Governor Newsom, the State of California, Alameda County Behavioral Health Care Services, and the City of Hayward. With construction beginning soon, this center will soon become a vital lifeline for community members in crisis—offering stabilization, connection, and a path toward long-term recovery.

BACS Leading Behavioral Health Conversations

We’re proud to have experts like Harjit Singh Gill, MA, LCSW, representing BACS at the California Health & Human Services Agency ‘s Behavioral Health Task Force Meeting —a statewide panel working to inform and advance California’s behavioral health agenda through collaboration, learning, and community-driven solutions.

Harjit joined a powerful discussion on BHSA and BH-Connect, emphasizing the importance of state, county, and provider partnerships. Harjit joined a discussion about BHSA and BH-Connect, emphasizing how vital it is for state, county, and provider systems to work together. Drawing from his experience on the frontlines, Harjit spoke powerfully about the importance of aligning policy with real community needs. His insights are helping shape a more equitable and effective future for behavioral health.

Catch Harjit’s segment around the 43-minute mark: Watch here

BACS & Faraji House: Healing Together

In East Oakland, BACS is part of a powerful collaboration is helping women rebuild their lives. Faraji House—a 9-bed transitional home founded by Hilda Nguthu-Bell—offers safety and support to women overcoming domestic violence and homelessness. The word Faraji means “consolation” in Swahili, and the home lives up to its name.

BACS stepped in to help bring Hilda’s vision to life, providing funding for ADA upgrades, new furnishings, and hands-on operational support. Now, Faraji House is a warm, healing environment where women can begin again. “BACS’ hand holding gave me confidence and validity,” says Hilda. Together, we’re proving that partnerships rooted in care can change lives.

From Crisis to Career: John Finds His Way Back

Transformation is possible.

With the support of our LIFT team, John has worked hard to turn his life around. He’s gone from struggling with homelessness, incarceration, and substance abuse to achieving stability and independence.

He’s got a place to call home, a steady job at FedEx, and has been sober for 2 years. He’s even reunited with his kids and become a proud grandfather.

We’re proud of him and the progress he’s made. Our LIFT team has helped many others achieve stability and independence every day.

Living the Four Agreements

BACS’ Compliance Department recently came together for a powerful in-person training centered on Don Miguel Ruiz’s The Four Agreements—guiding principles that promote emotional intelligence and personal integrity: Be impeccable with your word. Don’t take anything personally. Don’t make assumptions. Always do your best.

Designed and led by BACS supervisors, the workshop created a space for 23 staff members to reflect on these ideas, discuss how they apply to daily work, and strengthen bonds across departments. The result? A more connected team grounded in shared values that support both wellness and accountability—a true reflection of BACS’ culture of care.

Anna’s House Welcomes Families Home

 In 2024, BACS opened Anna’s House—a safe haven in East Oakland for mothers and children overcoming trauma. The home is named in memory of Anna, a beloved community member who lost her life after enduring domestic violence and homelessness. Today, her legacy lives on as three mothers and five young children, ages 3 to 10, find safety, healing, and community within these walls. Funded entirely through donations made in Anna’s honor, the home is more than shelter—it’s a sanctuary where families can rebuild and children can feel safe.

Support mothers to get out of homelessness: https://bayareacs.org/donate-anna/

Uplifting the Community, One Event at a Time

At the 2025 Community Connect Fair at the Oakland Coliseum, our team welcomed over 400 people to our tables, offering housing assessments, job leads, and essential resources. By the end of the day, 34 people had completed housing assessments, and 150 people had taken the first step toward employment. With more than 1,000 attendees and dozens of service providers on-site, the Coliseum pulsed with possibility.

We also joined the Vietnamese American Community Center of the East Bay for their Spring Health Fair. Despite chilly weather, the event was buzzing with warmth, music, and joy. We connected with more than 100 neighbors about mental health, housing, and support—proving once again that culturally-rooted community spaces are vital to well-being.

Finally, BACS participated in the 2025 East Bay Rental Housing Association Collaborative, where we connected with over 200 housing providers and partner organizations. These relationships are key to expanding access, breaking down barriers, and creating new housing opportunities for people in need.

Each event was different—but together, they reflect what makes BACS unique: showing up with care, forming real partnerships, and never missing an opportunity to meet people where they are.

Women’s Wellness Workshop

At BACS’ North County Wellness Center, more than 40 women gathered for a joyful and healing Women’s Wellness Workshop filled with delicious food, laughter, and support. The event brought together local partners like Men and Women of Valor, The Family Justice Center, and Rising Sun to share resources and strengthen connections. It was more than a workshop—it was a celebration of sisterhood, empowerment, and the power of showing up. The energy was infectious, the feedback was glowing, and one message rang loud and clear: our community is hungry for more events like this.

Rooted in Connection: A Day of Teamwork, Healing, and Growth

The recent BACS team-building event was a resounding success—energizing staff, deepening connections, and renewing our shared sense of purpose. We gathered for a community lunch, shared potluck desserts, and participated in a dynamic mix of activities designed to strengthen teamwork and enhance our skills in client care.

More than 80 staff members showed up, representing diverse teams including HEAT, LIFT, Circa 60, PAIGE, RISE, CARE FSP, and CARE Outreach & Engagement. The leadership team kicked off the day with engaging icebreakers, then guided participants through eight interactive learning stations: Art Therapy, DBT Skills, Team Building, Tactile Grounding, Motivational Speaking, and Strategies to Reduce Burnout.

Staff praised the event for creating meaningful connections, reducing stress, and offering fresh perspectives. Inspired by its impact, we’re excited to bring similar initiatives to more of our teams—promoting a culture of support, growth, and resilience across BACS.

Donate Cryptocurrency

Crypto has been up and down recently – why not take advantage of the change by donating your coins to help neighbors in need? Donating cryptocurrency is a non-taxable event, which means you can support our cause while enjoying unmatched tax benefits. Learn more here: https://thegivingblock.com/resources/why-donate-bitcoin/?_ga=2.232453661.347986391.1749845850-797024267.1749845849

Abiye’s Journey: His New Home is His Castle

“The first year was just shock—Oh my God, I finally have a place of my own.”

After years of housing instability, Abby found a safe, permanent home with help from BACS. Now he’s setting boundaries, pursuing a career in tech, and building a life he’s proud of.

Read Abby’s full story of growth, self-expression, and reclaiming independence: https://bayareacs.org/abiyes-journey-his-new-home-is-his-castle/

Home in a Basket

Big thanks to the Black Staff and Faculty Organization-University of the President team, especially Joyce Price and Roni Wilson, for donating these baskets.

BACS helps thousands of people experiencing homelessness each year, and your support can help them get settled into housing more quickly and comfortably. Each basket goes directly to a community member who has been experiencing homelessness but has finally found permanent, stable housing. The “Home in a Basket” helps people settle into their new home with basic items. This is a great activity for offices, kids, and teens to get involved in, thinking about what makes a house feel like “home” and adding those items to the basket.

Joel and Ebony are two of our community members who have finally found permanent housing after experiencing homelessness, and got to move in with a Home in a Basket to start them off! Pictured are Rae from BACS and Joyce from BSFO-UCOP.

Get involved and make a difference! Learn more: https://bayareacs.org/hiab/

Outreach Efforts Growing

Our Outreach Team is on the streets every day, going to encampments and other places where people are living to bring the services TO THEM. We do assessments in the field and help people get connected to resources immediately.

Since 2019, we’ve expanded our Outreach program to 4 cities, with 12 staff members – all with lived experience – serving Oakland, Berkeley, Hayward, Fremont, and beyond. We are also excited to announce that Markos Gonzalez, who has led our outreach department over the years, has been promoted to Associate Director over our outreach services.

Last year, we had 5,125 service interactions in non-traditional locations by our outreach team. Transforming lives, one connection at a time.

Springtime Support for BACS

Nonprofits like BACS rely on government funding to provide essential services—housing, mental health care, job support, and more. But most government grants pay on a reimbursement basis, meaning we do the work first and then get paid. Now, federal funding is in limbo, putting critical services at risk. But we refuse to back down.

There’s no such thing as “free money” for nonprofits. The government funds organizations like BACS because we do the work it can’t, won’t, or doesn’t know how to do.

BACS has always stretched every dollar to make the biggest impact—our admin rate is only 9.9%. When funding stalls, it’s not just a budget cut—it means real people in our community lose the support they need. This spring, we hope you support BACS!

Quality Improvement Growing at BACS

Sacramento’s Mental Health QIA team has hit the ground running! What started with three amazing QIA team members holding down the fort, has now become a growing group of nine! Our team has been busy welcoming and training our newest folks to help contribute to our programs running as smooth as possible. We have an amazing group of individuals doing “whatever it takes” to help support our programs.

Panera Feeds People in Need with BACS

Huge thanks to Panera Bread’s Day-End Dough-Nation program. We’re grateful to have received $24k worth of donated bread & baked goods last year, which made a real difference for our staff and clients at our wellness centers. That means that the more than 30,000 visits to our wellness centers for support with behavioral health care or housing insecurity could include a filling meal or snack, building up health and wellness together. This kindness helped support those rebuilding their lives and navigating mental health challenges.

Thanks to Kids Bike Lane!

We’re grateful to announce that 12 individuals, including Kendra and her daughter, have received refurbished bikes through our partnership with Kids Bike Lane. These bikes will provide a sense of freedom and independence, making it easier to commute and enjoy recreation. Thank you to Kids Bike Lane for their generosity and support.

Building Bridges to Health and Housing: CARE Court & BHBH Initiatives

We’re excited to share that BACS officially launched our CARE Court program in December 2024—along with a new Behavioral Health Bridge Housing (BHBH) initiative in January 2025 to provide transitional housing and support.

CARE Court is a groundbreaking program under the Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment (CARE) Act, designed to connect individuals with community-based treatment and prevent unnecessary crises, hospitalizations, and incarceration. Family members, therapists, or caregivers can petition for services through the Mental Health Care Court, and once approved, individuals receive up to 24 months of court-ordered treatment and support.

BACS’ Outreach & Engagement (O&E) team works tirelessly to find and connect individuals to Care Court services. Once enrolled, our Full-Service Partnership (FSP) team provides intensive behavioral health care while coordinating with public defenders and community partners to ensure continuity of care.

Individuals in CARE Court are also prioritized for BHBH, a transitional housing program offering stability and behavioral health services while participants work toward permanent housing. BHBH includes two locations at BACS: REGIS Campus (newly opened in Hayward) and Henry Robinson Center (a well-known BACS housing site). With the right housing, treatment, and support, CARE Court and BHBH give people a real path toward recovery and long-term stability.

Windows, Not Bars: Reentry Services

One of BACS’ major strategic goals is Windows, Not Bars—helping people break free from cycles of incarceration and build stable, fulfilling lives.

As a key player in implementing Proposition 47 (Prop 47) in California, BACS provides vital re-entry services for individuals involved in the criminal justice system. With Prop 47 grant funding, we offer mental health support, substance use treatment, housing assistance, and employment services—proven strategies to reduce recidivism and create lasting change.

For the third year in a row, BACS was the first community-based organization to fully utilize its Prop 47 re-entry funds—ensuring every dollar directly benefits people, rather than being returned to the government unused. This funding is a lifeline, preventing individuals with behavioral health and substance use challenges from falling through the cracks after incarceration.

Through our two re-entry treatment teams, BACS has served 160+ individuals, personally bringing them out of jail and back into their communities. Two-thirds are now in the final phase of an evidence-based stability program. Recidivism among participants—who face some of the most complex behavioral health challenges—remains remarkably low at under 12%.

Additionally, BACS has kept all 20 probation beds full in Oakland, providing critical stability for individuals exiting the system. Our rehousing efforts have had a 69% success rate in securing permanent housing for people coming straight from incarceration.

By investing in people, not punishment, BACS is proving that real rehabilitation is possible.

From Homelessness to Hope: Victor’s Journey

When Victor first connected with BACS in 2020, he was sleeping in a park in Oakland, struggling with homelessness, isolation, and addiction. That same day, BACS placed him in a hotel, providing stability and hope. With support, he moved into his first apartment, but his battle with alcohol led to a health crisis—he lost his housing and had to relearn how to walk.

Determined to change, Victor worked with BACS to get medical care, worked with a case manager, and spent a year rebuilding his strength. He shifted his lifestyle, embracing healthy habits and focusing on personal growth. Today, he lives in a studio apartment, runs a small business selling art and books, and is working to shape a brighter future.

His message to others? Accept help, set your goals, and believe in your ability to rebuild your life—because a fresh start is always possible.

A Powerful Call for Justice Reform with Ken Oliver

Jamie Almanza, CEO of BACS, met Ken Oliver, Chief Innovation Officer of The Just Trust, looking to join forces for justice-involved individuals.  We clicked immediately, even as he asked, “what is this woman dressed this way in my hood?” Our CEO loves to thrift and wears 4 inch heels even when helping people out of encampments. “You never look at Ken and see how many years he spent in solitary,” said Jamie, continuing “His spirit and joy shine through.”  They bonded over shared visions for freedom and community integration.

The BACS team are first responders – on the front lines of behavioral health and homelessness – which takes dedication, motivation, and passion. As CEO, my job is to support every single team member to make real transformation possible. So BACS invited our colleague, Ken Oliver, who has lived the life inside and out of the most serious carceral system, to teach and motivate the 90+ members of our leadership team and bring that learning to the streets.

Ken joined BACS to share his experience inside the justice system. Ken’s presentation and Q&A support our team’s learning and advocacy as we continue to build pathways for successful reintegration and advocate for justice-impacted individuals through comprehensive support services. Read more about his experience and the wisdom he shared with BACS on our website.

Compassion + Action

March is National Social Work Month—a time to recognize the compassionate, dedicated professionals who make a real difference in people’s lives every day. At BACS, we are proud to have more than 60 social workers on our team, working tirelessly to uplift individuals, families, and communities.

Our social workers provide critical support, from mental health services to housing solutions, ensuring that people facing complex challenges receive the care and advocacy they need. Whether helping someone find stable housing, navigate behavioral health services, or access essential resources, they show up with expertise, empathy, and resilience.

“It’s motivating to see those who once felt they had to face their struggles alone, now embracing the support and help that’s available.” – Amina Benkhelouf, LCSW

“The most important thing is humanity. By leading with respect, dignity, and empathy, I believe everything else falls into place.” – Natalie Lee, LCSW

Check out our LinkedIn for some hero profiles on just a few of our excellent social work staff!

Get Smart Help from BACS: We’re Live on Smart City Tablets

We’re thrilled to announce that BACS is now featured on 37 Smart City tablets across Oakland and Berkeley! These tablets provide easy access to essential services, fostering community engagement and support.

Next time you’re out and about, check us out on a Smart City tablet near you. Whether you need help or want to help others, we’re here to connect you with the resources you need.

Thanks to IKE Smart City for making this possible!

Missed Our Annual Report? Check Your Impact!

In case you missed it, we released our latest Annual Report, and the numbers tell an incredible story—real people, real change, real progress.

Last year, BACS helped thousands of people move from homelessness to housing, from crisis to stability, and from isolation to community. This work is only possible because of supporters like you!

Check out the report to see the impact, read inspiring stories, and learn how we’re tackling the biggest challenges in housing and behavioral health. Thank you for being part of this movement. Keep being involved and our community will keep getting better.

BACS Secures Over $2.8 Million to Expand Housing Solutions in Yolo County

BACS is excited to announce a major expansion to our new services in partnership with Yolo County, where we will purchase properties to create safe, permanent housing.

“We are honored to expand our impact into Yolo County and bring much-needed housing stability to its residents,” said Jamie Almanza, CEO of BACS. “This investment will directly address the critical shortage of housing for those who are struggling and provide supportive services that can change lives.”

BACS will be getting people out of homelessness in to secure housing. We will provide housing support and independent living skills, care coordination, and substance use support and behavioral health referrals.

In the last ten years, BACS has launched partnerships in five new counties, responding to the need for comprehensive, integrated behavioral health and housing solutions in local communities. BACS is committed to addressing the complex challenges of homelessness and behavioral health with tailored support that meets the unique needs of each community. In 2023 alone, BACS helped 2,820 households remain housed and supported over 3,100 individuals with behavioral health crisis services.

Learn more about our Yolo programs on our website: https://bayareacs.org/yolo-county/

Growth and Change on the BACS Website

As BACS grows, we adapt to neighborhood and community need – and our website must do the same. We want our site to be a vibrant platform where people can learn about BACS, seek assistance, and get involved.

While you can see all the changes at www.bayareacs.org, here are a few highlights:

1. The home page now leads with our vision and the impacts from our most recent annual report! We keep our data transparently front-and-center, and you can see right away the impacts BACS is having.
2. The Ways to Give page has expanded – people can make BACS’ work possible through many different methods, including donating an old vehicle to BACS! If you or anybody you know wants to donate, they can visit bayareacs.org/ways-to-give/
3. Our Get Help page is now a fantastic resource, broken down by county, to help people looking for support. We have so many programs taking unique approaches to behavioral health and homelessness. If you or anybody you know wants to get connected, visit bayareacs.org/get-help

Raising the BACS Minimum Wage & Supporting Our Team

We’re thrilled to announce a major transformation at BACS! Our agency is growing, and we’re implementing a comprehensive organizational structure change to support our expansion and better serve our staff, partners, and communities. This change includes new leadership roles, enhanced departments, and a two-tier structure to our Program Manager position, providing clear paths for professional growth and development.

As we embark on this new chapter, we are also recognizing the hard work and dedication of our admin staff with well-deserved raises! With our fresh structure and commitment to growth, there has never been a better time to join our team. Look for openings here: https://bayareacs.org/careers/

Alameda County Recognizes BACS Employment Placement Program’s Strengths

At the heart of BACS’ mission is a commitment not just to help as many people as possible, but to ensure that the support we provide is of the highest quality.

That’s why we’re excited to share that our Individualized Placement and Support (IPS) program recently received top marks in Alameda County’s IPS Fidelity Report, underscoring our dedication to excellence and transparency in delivering evidence-based services.

Our IPS program is designed to support individuals with complex needs, behavioral health challenges, co-occurring disorders, and/or those experiencing homelessness. Using an evidence-based model, we help participants discover their career aspirations, prepare for work, and secure competitive, satisfying employment. Our goal is to get people working quickly, with a focus on personalized support and assertive engagement.

Key Highlights:

• Caseload size: We served a lot of people, while ensuring personalized attention and support for each participant.
• Agency focus on competitive employment: Our emphasis on securing competitive jobs aligns with our mission to help individuals achieve meaningful jobs that promote well-being, earn fair wages, and include benefits.
• Diversity of job types & employers: We successfully placed participants in a variety of job types and industries, catering to diverse skills, interests, and strengths.
• Assertive engagement and outreach: Our integrated treatment team’s proactive approach to engaging participants and outreach efforts were recognized, ensuring comprehensive support throughout the employment journey.

These exceptional results are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. Learn more on our website.

Contra Costa County Resource Fair

Join BACS and presenting sponsor Wells Fargo for the Contra Costa Community Connect Prevention & Resource Fair!

October 17, 2024   |   noon to 3 p.m.   |   3105 Willow Pass Rd, Bay Point, CA 94565

Join us at the Contra Costa Community Connect Prevention & Resource Fair for a wide range of resources available to our community members! Explore legal services, housing navigation and prevention assistance, behavioral health support, food, raffles and more. For any questions, reach out to communityengagement@bayareacs.org

Alameda County Community Connect

Black Hair Independence Day

Every year on July 3rd, we celebrate Black Hair Independence Day, also known as the anniversary of the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act. For the past five years, this day has marked a significant step towards ending racial discrimination based on hair texture and protective hairstyles (including braids, twists, locks, loose hair, and spiral curls) in public schools and workplaces.

This legislation is crucial because many people face discrimination in both educational and professional settings due to their natural hair. Children should be able to attend school without the fear of being sent home for wearing their hair naturally. Similarly, individuals should not be deemed “unprofessional” because of their hair. At BACS we emphasize the importance of giving our partners access to barbers and braiders. This resource, that many of us may take for granted, is important to our partners because it could make a difference in getting employment and restoring dignity.

As of now, the CROWN Act has been passed in 26 states, but there are still 24more states to go! The journey continues, but each step forward brings us closer to a society where natural hair is embraced and respected.

Is Your Car Going to Turn Into A Pumpkin? 

Donate your unwanted car, truck, motorcycle, RV, bike, kayak or boat to support BACS in Cartober! Your donation will immediately help people experiencing homelessness or behavioral health challenges.

Easy and Free Process

• Go to careasy.org and enter BACS as the charity of choice.
• Enter your contact information and schedule a pickup time.
• The CARS representative will come, check your ownership papers, and load the vehicle onto the truck. Your vehicle can be in any condition.
• 100% of your donation is tax deductible! Proceeds will be used to make a positive impact in the community

So far, car donations have raised nearly $14,000 for BACS.

Donate your unwanted vehicle today and contribute to the amazing work of BACS! The process is easy and free, and we’ll use the proceeds to uplift individuals, families, and communities by doing “whatever it takes.”

Go to: https://cartober.com/nonprofit/bay-area-community-service