Napa, CA – A longtime program in Napa County that has helped residents with behavioral health challenges live independently is set to close after three decades of service. The Napa Supported Living program, run by the Novato-based nonprofit Buckelew Programs, will cease operations due to financial constraints, the organization announced.
Chris Kughn, CEO of Buckelew Programs, emphasized that the decision was not a reflection of the program’s value, but rather a difficult financial decision necessary to ensure the stability of the nonprofit. “This is not a reflection of the value of this program, which has been an incredible asset to Napa County for three decades, but rather a move to maintain the stability of our organization as a whole,” Kughn said.
The decision to shut down the program came after a thorough evaluation of the organization’s finances. While Buckelew did not provide specific financial details, officials stated that they could no longer sustain the Napa program long-term. The nonprofit is now working closely with county partners to help affected clients transition to other services.
The Napa Supported Living program has been instrumental in assisting adults with serious mental illnesses, providing in-home support and helping clients remain housed and engaged in their communities. Services have included regular home visits, coordination of medical and social services, counseling support, and transportation to appointments. Staff also helped clients manage symptoms, set goals, budget finances, and access 24-hour crisis intervention services when needed.
Although the Napa program is closing, Buckelew Programs will continue to operate similar supported housing initiatives in Marin and Sonoma counties, which are unaffected by the closure.
The announcement of the program’s closure has been met with disappointment from local organizations. Drene Johnson, executive director of Community Action of Napa Valley, called the closure “very sad,” acknowledging the program’s crucial role in supporting vulnerable community members. Johnson’s organization, which runs the Napa Food Bank and Meals on Wheels, had previously partnered with Buckelew on rental assistance and other community programs.
Napa County’s Health and Human Services Department is working closely with Buckelew and other community organizations to ensure a seamless transition for clients. Cassandra Eslami, deputy director of behavioral health at Napa County, expressed gratitude to Buckelew for its long-term dedication to the community. “Napa County Health & Human Services extends its gratitude to Buckelew for their long-term dedication to the community and upholding the Napa County Health & Human Services mission, vision, and values in service delivery,” Eslami said.
While the closure marks the end of an important program for Napa County, efforts are underway to ensure that clients continue to receive the care and services they need during this difficult transition.