California’s CARE Court initiative aims to compel treatment for severely mentally ill residents living on the streets, but it’s falling short of objectives as only 557 petitions were filed in the first nine months. State officials are confident they can help 2,000 adults by the end of the year as the program expands to all 58 counties. Counties are struggling to find and persuade eligible individuals to enroll, with judges dismissing 40% of petitions. Despite funding and efforts, expectations need to be managed, as treatment is largely voluntary and results take time in this complex program aimed at reducing homelessness and addressing mental health challenges.
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