Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a new allocation of $827 million in grants to support over 100 local communities and organizations across California in their efforts to combat homelessness. The funding, distributed among 37 regional grantees, aims to create long-term housing solutions and support services for those experiencing homelessness.

The initiative is part of the state's Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) grant program, which provides flexible funding to help communities develop permanent housing, rental assistance, case management services, and other supportive measures. Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in the use of these funds, stating that "these new funds represent the hard work, accountability, and strategic planning needed to address homelessness with real, long-lasting results."

In Los Angeles, where the announcement was made alongside city and county officials, Mayor Karen Bass highlighted the significance of the HHAP program. "The only way we can be successful in solving homelessness is by locking arms and implementing a comprehensive approach that shows results," she said.

The funding comes with stringent requirements for accountability and transparency. Grantees must report monthly fiscal progress on the California Housing and Community Development’s website through a fiscal dashboard. They are also required to submit quarterly outcomes to the California Homeless Data Integration System.

Tomiquia Moss, Business, Consumer Services and Housing Secretary, commented on the impact of this round of funding: “The HHAP Round 5 grants demonstrate how the state can support and amplify regional strategies and coordination to help our most vulnerable residents move into safe and stable housing.”

This effort aligns with Governor Newsom's broader strategy to address homelessness statewide. It includes an executive order encouraging local governments to adopt policies consistent with Caltrans' encampment policy. This policy prioritizes clearing encampments that pose risks while providing advance notice and coordinating with service providers.

California continues its focus on transforming behavioral health care through initiatives like CARE Court and Proposition 1. These programs aim to connect individuals with untreated psychosis or mental health conditions to necessary treatment and housing resources.