Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Daniel Perea, Undersheriff
Subject: Agreement with Community Overcoming Relationship Abuse for Emergency Response Program services
RECOMMENDATION:
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Adopt a resolution authorizing an agreement with Community Overcoming Relationship Abuse (CORA) to provide Emergency Response Program (ERP) services to victims of domestic violence, for the term of July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2028, in an amount not to exceed $599,065.
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BACKGROUND:
The County of San Mateo, in partnership with the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office and CORA, is committed to protecting and supporting victims of domestic violence through a long-standing, coordinated, victim-centered approach. The ERP, jointly operated by the Sheriff’s Office and CORA, connects victims to critical support services - such as crisis counseling, shelter, legal resources, and safety planning - immediately following a 911 domestic violence call. Deputies on scene refer victims directly to trained counselors for both immediate intervention and ongoing support to promote long-term safety and stability for victims and their children.
CORA also enhances law enforcement response by providing technical assistance, facilitating Quarterly Police Contacts Meetings, and delivering training to deputies through Sheriff’s Office briefings and at the Police Academy. These efforts align with the County’s Domestic Violence Protocol adopted in 2004 and are designed to ensure that victims receive support regardless of whether an arrest is made. Program effectiveness is evaluated through regular performance reporting, annual surveys, and victim feedback to maintain accountability and inform ongoing improvements.
DISCUSSION:
Approval of this agreement will formalize continued collaboration between the Sheriff’s Office and CORA to deliver crisis response and support services through the ERP. Under the agreement, CORA will provide 24/7 crisis intervention and follow-up care for domestic violence victims, including emergency shelter, legal assistance, counseling, and safety planning.
CORA will also maintain a crisis hotline, respond to ERP referrals, support prevention efforts through outreach and training, and continue offering technical assistance and coordination with law enforcement, ensuring a consistent and effective Countywide response for victims of domestic violence.
The resolution contains the County’s standard provision allowing amendments of the County’s fiscal obligation by a maximum of $25,000 (in aggregate).
The County Attorney’s Office has reviewed and approved the agreement and resolution as to form.
PERFORMANCE MEASURE:
|
Measure |
FY 2025-26 Estimated |
FY 2026-27 Projected |
FY 2027-28 Projected |
|
Percent of clients referred by the Sheriff’s Office to a counselor within 10 minutes. |
95% |
95% |
95% |
|
Percent of clients who received two follow-up calls within 48 hours. |
100% |
100% |
100% |
|
Percent of clients offered safety planning and access to resources. |
100% |
100% |
100% |
|
Percent of clients who received one or more referrals. |
50% |
50% |
50% |
|
Number of training courses held annually for Sheriff’s Office staff. |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
Quarterly reports will track demographics, outcomes, and repeat referrals. |
- |
- |
- |
COMMUNITY IMPACT:
Partnering with CORA will strengthen coordination between law enforcement and community partners to promote safety, stability, and trust for domestic violence victims and their children. CORA’s ERP will positively impact marginalized communities by providing equitable access to critical safety and crisis support services for all victims across San Mateo County, ensuring timely, trauma-informed assistance regardless of income, language, or background.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The term of this agreement is July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2028, in an amount not to exceed $599,065. Funds in the amount of $194,062 are included in the Sheriff’s Office FY 2025-26 Adopted Budget. Funds in the amount of $199,632 are included in the Sheriff’s Office FY 2026-27 Recommended Budget. Similar arrangements will be made for future fiscal years.