UMMA Health Launches Project RENEW

UMMA Health is honored to be announce our new Justice-Involved Program, Project RENEW, a groundbreaking initiative funded through a federal grant awarded to only 54 health centers nationwide, with UMMA Health being the only awardee in Los Angeles. This historic, first-of-its-kind national collective action aims to ensure that incarcerated individuals with complex health needs are directly connected with a community health center before their release, setting them on a path to stability, healing, and long-term success. 

 

In partnership with the Los Angeles County jail system and its health department, Project RENEW focuses on supporting inmates at Men’s Central Jail who are living with HIV, hepatitis C, and other infectious diseases. By working in concert with clinical staff and peer navigators, UMMA Health is bridging the gap between correctional facilities and community care, making health a central priority in the rehabilitation process. 

• Peer Navigation: Formerly incarcerated individuals, trained as navigators, bring lived experience to guide participants through reentry. 
• Case Management: One-on-one, strength-based planning that identifies hurdels and builds individualized care plans. 
• Housing Navigation: Practical support in developing achievable housing goals amidst the current crisis. 

“Project RENEW is about making sure no one is left behind at the critical moment of reentry,” said Adel Syed Ed.D, CEO of UMMA Health. “We are proud to be part of this national initiative to connect people with care before they leave incarceration, and to walk with them as they rebuild their lives.”

1. Provided navigation-enhanced case management services to at least 150 men leaving Men’s Central Jail. 
2. Ensured at least 95% of participants develop a care plan addressing their needs and hurdles to successful reentry. 
3. Linked at least 60% of clients to medical care within 30 days of release. 
4. Ensured at least 50% of clients remain engaged in care by attending at least three medical visits within six months of release. 
5. Supported at least 70% of hepatitis C–infected patients who access treatment to achieve sustained viral response (SVR). 
6. Linked at least 90% of HIV-positive patients to quality HIV care post-release.