4300 Department of Developmental Services
Program Descriptions

20 - DEVELOPMENTAL CENTERS PROGRAM

The Department operates five Developmental Centers: Agnews, Fairview, Lanterman, Porterville, and Sonoma. Secure treatment services are provided at Porterville Developmental Center. In addition, the Department leases two facilities for persons who require specialized behavioral interventions: Sierra Vista, a 58-bed facility in Yuba City, and Canyon Springs, a 63-bed facility in Cathedral City. Services at all facilities involve the provision of active treatment through residential and day programs on a 24-hour basis, including appropriate medical and dental care, health maintenance activities, and assistance with activities of daily living, training, education, and employment.

The primary objectives of the Developmental Centers Program include providing care, treatment, and habilitative services in the most efficient, effective, and least restrictive manner to all individuals referred to the Developmental Centers Program by the regional centers, and/or the judicial system; and providing services to individuals that ensure increased independence, maintenance or improvement of health and welfare, and enhanced personal competence and effectiveness in all areas of daily living.

The Developmental Centers Division provides central administrative and clinical management services to the five Developmental Centers and the two leased facilities to ensure the quality of services provided, compliance with state licensing and federal certification requirements, protection of consumers and staff, and maintenance of facility structures and grounds. Areas of responsibility include the development of policy and procedures for all aspects of the Developmental Centers operations, law enforcement and protective services, facility population management, program and fiscal oversight, and facilities planning and support.