Program Guide for ICMS Case Managers
The FY 25-26 Program Guide supports ICMS case managers and supervisors in delivering Housing First, trauma-informed services across LA County. Use this guide as a practical reference for housing navigation, retention, care coordination, and documentation.
About This Guide
Note: The FY 25-26 ICMS Program Guide must be distributed to and signed by all case managers and supervisors. Completed signature pages must be stored in personnel files in preparation for future audits.
Important Note: FY 25-26 Program Guide signature pages should not be submitted to HFH at this time.
This comprehensive guide is rooted in Housing First principles and trauma-informed care. It provides ICMS case managers and supervisors with actionable strategies to support housing attainment, retention, and participant-centered care — promoting stability, equity, and dignity for people experiencing homelessness across LA County.
Key Highlights
Housing First and Harm Reduction
Frameworks to prioritize permanent housing without barriers, supporting participant choice and self-determination throughout the housing process.
Step-by-Step Workflows
Practical guidance for housing navigation, eviction prevention, and care coordination to help case managers take clear, consistent action.
Trauma-Informed Tools
Strategies to address stress overload, tenant screening barriers, and VAWA protections to support participants through complex situations.
Proven Practices
Insights from LA County’s homelessness solutions, including partnerships with LAHSA, DMH, and Brilliant Corners to connect participants with coordinated services.
CHAMP Documentation
Best practices for recording services, updating care plans, and documenting case notes in CHAMP while maintaining compliance with participant privacy and consent requirements.
What This Guide Covers
Housing Navigation
Step-by-step guidance for supporting participants through the housing search, application, and placement process, including working with landlords and navigating tenant screening barriers.
Housing Retention
Strategies for preventing eviction, addressing lease violations, and coordinating retention services to support long-term housing stability.
Care Coordination
Guidance on connecting participants to physical health, behavioral health, and social services, including referrals to DMH, DHS, and community-based providers.
Engagement and Intake
Trauma-informed approaches to outreach, engagement, and intake that center participant dignity and build trust from the first point of contact.
CHAMP Documentation
Best practices for documenting services, care plans, and case notes in CHAMP while maintaining compliance with participant privacy and consent requirements.
Special Topics
Guidance on decluttering using harm reduction, transgender participant support, VAWA protections, and working with older adults in ICMS.
Access the Guide
Important Note: Signature pages must be stored in personnel files. Do not submit to HFH at this time.
The FY 25-26 Program Guide is available as a PDF. All case managers and supervisors are required to read, acknowledge, and sign the guide.
Signature Requirement
- The guide must be distributed to all case managers and supervisors
- All staff must read and sign the guide
- Completed signature pages must be stored in personnel files
- Do not submit signature pages to HFH at this time