211 Power Outage Care Coordination

With the Public Safety Power Shutoff Care Coordination program, Interface 211 Ventura County (211VC) is providing essential care coordination services to the most vulnerable customers of investor-owned utility companies, including PG&E and Southern California Edison, spanning 12 counties. At both local and statewide levels, 211VC has been pivotal in extending vital resources to individuals requiring care coordination, encompassing various aspects such as transportation services, shelter accommodations, food assistance, and meticulous planning for Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). Additionally, we facilitate access to incentives such as battery or generator rebates.

Through a strategic collaborative effort, the California 211 Network, in partnership with PG&E and SCE, is dedicated to supporting customers with Access and Functional Needs, including those with disabilities or limited transportation, particularly in high-fire-risk areas. This endeavor involves connecting them with an array of resources, specialized programs, and local support systems to ensure their safety and well-being.

In light of heightened wildfire risks, the utility companies employ a crucial preventive measure known as Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). These temporary power outages are initiated to mitigate the potential for electrical system-related fire ignition, thereby prioritizing public safety above all else.

The concerted efforts of 211VC, alongside its esteemed partners, underscore a commitment to fostering resilience and safeguarding the welfare of communities facing multifaceted challenges. By leveraging collective expertise and resources, we endeavor to provide comprehensive support and guidance to those in need, thereby reinforcing the fabric of community resilience.

To make an appointment with a care coordinator, visit our sister website, 211Now.com.

Care Coordination Impact Story:

211 was activated to respond to a PSPS event on 10/29/23 affecting Ventura County SCE customers.

When we were notified of the scheduled PSPS event a couple of days before (10/27), we began to proactively call out to our 211 AFN clients who were under PSPS consideration.

As a result, we identified a 211 AFN client, Carla*, a physically disabled senior who required electricity for medication refrigeration and had run out of food. After assessing her needs, we helped provide a portable backup battery through SCE and grocery delivery through DoorDash. Because Carla has dietary restrictions, we were able to deliver specific foods that met her dietary needs, including bags of ice she used as cold packs for pain management.

Here is what she said about the help we provided:

“Today, you are my lighthouse in stormy rocky water. I am so humbly grateful. Things are so much more bearable with this help; all this is to say thank you for being there for me. I have no one at all. I have friends, but they are out of state. It’s just you and 211. I am 72, and when you get old, you are ignored. People aren’t as friendly around here, and you never really have anybody check in on you. But I am so grateful you have. Thank you!”