Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a significant funding initiative aimed at addressing homelessness in California. The state will distribute over $827 million in grants to 37 regional beneficiaries, encompassing more than 100 communities and local organizations. These funds are intended to create long-term solutions for homelessness, including new housing and shelters.

The funding is part of the state's Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) program, which offers flexible grant funds to support communities in creating permanent housing solutions, rental assistance, case management services, and other eligible uses. Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency measures included with the grants to ensure effective use of the funds.

“We have given our local partners the tools and resources they need: It’s time to end this crisis now. These new funds represent the hard work, accountability, and strategic planning necessary to address homelessness with real and lasting results,” stated Governor Gavin Newsom.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed her support for the initiative: “The only way to succeed in solving homelessness is by joining forces and implementing a comprehensive approach that shows results. The Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention program is crucial for our success here in Los Angeles.”

Recipients of the funding must adhere to increased accountability measures, ensuring that investments lead to measurable outcomes. They are required to report monthly on fiscal progress via California's Housing and Community Development website.

Tomiquia Moss, Secretary of Business, Consumer Services and Housing, commented on the importance of regional strategies: “The fifth round HHAP grants demonstrate how the State can support and expand regional strategies... By working together to address their communities' unique needs, we move much closer to reducing homelessness statewide.”

This announcement follows an executive order from Governor Newsom urging local governments to align policies with existing guidelines from California's Department of Transportation (Caltrans) regarding homeless encampments. Caltrans focuses on camps posing threats to community safety while providing advance notice for evacuation.

Additionally, California is enhancing behavioral health care access through initiatives like the Community Assistance Recovery & Empowerment (CARE) Court. This approach aims at connecting individuals with untreated psychosis with necessary treatment and housing.

The HHAP funding requires regions to coordinate action plans for addressing homelessness at a regional level. All 37 regions receiving funds demonstrated commitments toward creating permanent housing solutions.