The mission of San Francisco's IHSS Public Authority is to provide and promote a service delivery model of consumer directed, in-home support that maximizes the potential of older adults and people with disabilities to live independently and participate in their communities.
Background photo of the fog shrouded Golden Gate Bridge with the City of San Francisco in the background.
California provides in-home care through the Attendant Care program, giving grants to eligible consumers, who hired and paid their providers.
California Assembly creates the Homemaker/Chore Program, later renamed IHSS.
Establishment of current IHSS Program – state legislation identifies consumers as the employer and the state as responsible for payments and fiscal issues.
San Francisco IHSS Public Authority opens its doors, and Donna Calame is the first Executive Director.
On-Call Program is created to provide emergency services to consumers who don’t have a regular Provider available.
SFIHSSPA offers what was then the only comprehensive employer-sponsored health coverage for IP’s in the state. Dental coverage was added as an IP job benefit in January 2000.
California Association of Public Authorities (CAPA) is founded. CAPA advocates for state-wide improvements in the IHSS system.
PA Consumer Peer Mentor Program (CPMP) is re-instituted to provide support services to San Franciscans with disabilities transitioning from institutional living to the community.
Public Authority celebrated its 20th Anniversary, marking two decades of service, advocacy, and commitment to supporting our community.
The Public Authority begins offering Livescan services to Providers who have completed the enrollment process. As an authorized Livescan vendor, the PA is able to offer this service at the lowest cost available.
Public Authority celebrated its 30th Anniversary, marking two decades of service, advocacy, and commitment to supporting our community.
“Since I am without any family, it is crucial to have IHSS. It gives me some peace of mind to know there is someone I can call for help in an emergency.”
- Debbie, IHSS Recipient
IHSS providers were formally recognized as essential workers, reinforcing the critical role they play in keeping older adults and people with disabilities safe and supported at home.
Training programs shifted online to ensure uninterrupted access for providers, increasing flexibility, participation, and accessibility for new and existing caregivers.
Expanded emergency and backup provider systems to reduce care disruptions, ensuring consumers continue to receive essential support during provider absences.
Launched state-supported training opportunities to strengthen provider skills, improve care quality, and support long-term workforce development in IHSS.
Ongoing initiatives to recruit and retain IHSS providers through outreach, onboarding support, and training improvements to address workforce shortages.
Increased in-person and virtual outreach events, including resource fairs, to connect providers and consumers with services, benefits, and support programs.
Improved provider systems and workflows through digital tools such as electronic timesheets, streamlined enrollment processes, and enhanced communication platforms.
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