What Is CalAIM? A Simple Guide to California's New Way of Helping People

If you've heard the term "CalAIM" and wondered what it means — you're not alone. It sounds like government jargon, but it's actually one of the most important changes California has made to help people experiencing homelessness, chronic illness, and other complex life challenges.

CalAIM in Plain English

CalAIM stands for California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal. It's a statewide initiative that changes how Medi-Cal (California's health insurance for low-income residents) works. The goal? To connect people to housing, health care, and social support — all through one system.

Before CalAIM, getting help often meant calling ten different agencies, filling out ten different forms, and hoping someone called you back. CalAIM is designed to change that.

What Does CalAIM Cover?

Under CalAIM, Medi-Cal now covers services that go beyond doctor visits:

• Enhanced Care Management (ECM) — A dedicated care manager who coordinates ALL of your services: housing, health, mental health, substance use, benefits, and more.

• Community Supports — Practical help like housing navigation, move-in assistance, meals, medically supportive food, and sobering centers.

• Housing Navigation — Help finding and applying for housing, working with landlords, and securing deposits.

• Housing Deposits — Financial assistance for security deposits and first/last month rent.

• Medically Supportive Food — Nutritious meals delivered to people recovering from illness or managing chronic conditions.

Who Qualifies?

You may qualify for CalAIM services if you:

• Have Medi-Cal (or can enroll in Medi-Cal)

• Are experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing your housing

• Have chronic health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or mental health challenges

• Are transitioning out of incarceration, hospitals, or institutions

• Need help coordinating multiple services and appointments

How Mysti's Can Help

Mysti's Adult & Family Services is an authorized CalAIM provider in six California counties: Los Angeles, Monterey, Santa Cruz, Contra Costa, Riverside, and Merced. Our case managers connect you directly to ECM and Community Supports — no runaround, no waiting lists that never move.

We meet you where you are. Literally. Our mobile teams come to shelters, hospitals, motels, and the street. We help you enroll in Medi-Cal if you don't have it, connect you to housing, and stay with you until you're stable.

Ready to Get Started?

Call us at 833-312-7466 or email help@mystis.org. You can also visit mystis.org and use our chat to connect with someone right now. We serve clients in Los Angeles, Monterey, Santa Cruz, Contra Costa, Riverside, and Merced counties.

You don't have to figure it out alone. That's what we're here for.