Applicability: This addendum applies exclusively to individuals enrolled in the Foundational Community Supports (FCS) program receiving Supported Employment or Supportive Housing services through FPOPS.
1. POLICY PRECEDENCETo comply with the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) and Third-Party Administrator (TPA) agreements, specific policies differ for individuals enrolled in the FCS program.
Where the policies in this Addendum conflict with the standard FPOPS Client Handbook or Shelter Rules, the policies in this Addendum shall prevail for FCS-enrolled participants. All other standard FPOPS policies (e.g., non-violence, weapon-free facility, anti-harassment) remain in full effect.
2. ELIGIBILITY AND LOW-BARRIER ACCESS (HOUSING FIRST)Policy Statement:
FPOPS is committed to a “Housing First” approach for FCS participants. Eligibility for housing support and employment services is based on need and is not contingent upon sobriety, completion of treatment programs, or “housing readiness.”
Key Provisions:
Sobriety Not Required: Admission to the FCS caseload and access to FCS-designated housing resources shall not be denied solely based on an individual’s substance use history or current use, provided behaviors do not pose a direct safety threat to staff or other residents.
Length of Stay: Unlike the standard “Temporary Stay” policy for emergency shelter, FCS participants engaging in Supportive Housing services will not be subject to arbitrary time limits on service participation. Service duration is determined by medical necessity and the individual’s need for ongoing support to sustain tenancy.
Voluntary Services: Participation in wraparound services (e.g., therapy, financial literacy classes) is voluntary. Refusal to participate in specific ancillary services will not result in termination of housing support or FCS enrollment.
3. SUBSTANCE USE AND HARM REDUCTIONPolicy Statement:
For FCS participants, FPOPS replaces the standard “Zero Tolerance / Drug-Free Facility” enforcement model with a “Harm Reduction and Behavior-Based” model. The goal is to reduce the negative consequences of substance use while maintaining a safe environment for all.
Behavior-Based Enforcement:
Disciplinary action, including separation from the program, will strictly address behaviors that impact the safety and peaceful enjoyment of the facility, rather than the act of substance use itself.
Possession vs. Behavior:
While the open display, distribution, or manufacturing of controlled substances remains prohibited on FPOPS property, evidence of use (e.g., intoxication) is not grounds for immediate termination unless it is accompanied by disruptive or aggressive behavior.
Staff will support clients in safe storage of medications and discourage unsafe use practices.
Intervention Protocol:
If an FCS participant appears intoxicated or under the influence:
Standard Shelter Policy: Immediate exit/termination.
FCS Policy: Staff will assess for safety. If the individual is quiet and non-threatening, they will be permitted to rest in their assigned area or a safe space.
Crisis intervention will be prioritized over eviction. Emergency services will be called only if there is a medical emergency or an imminent threat of violence.
4. DISCHARGE PLANNING AND TERMINATION (WARM HANDOFF)Policy Statement:
FPOPS recognizes that abrupt termination of services can lead to negative health outcomes. Discharge from the FCS program requires distinct procedures aligned with Medicaid “Warm Handoff” standards.
Requirements for Separation:
Prohibition on Abrupt Discharge:
FCS participants shall not be discharged into homelessness or lack of care solely due to rule violations, except in cases of violence or immediate threats to safety.
Non-payment of rent (if applicable to specific housing units) or minor rule violations will trigger a housing stability meeting/review rather than immediate eviction.
The “Warm Handoff” Protocol:
Prior to any involuntary discharge, FPOPS staff must:
Document at least three (3) distinct attempts to engage the client in conflict resolution or behavioral contracts.
Coordinate with the authorizing entity (e.g., DSHS, HCA, or TPA) to review the case.
Identify and contact an alternative provider or shelter resource.
A discharge plan must be created that includes confirmed referrals to other community resources, ensuring a continuity of care.
Notification and Appeals:
FCS participants facing termination of services must be provided with a written notice detailing the reasons for the action and their right to appeal the decision through the HCA/TPA grievance process.