Programs helping those at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness got a $12 million boost Tuesday.
The San Diego County Board of Supervisors accepted the state grant as round six of Homeless Housing Assistance and Prevention funding to sustain key County programs that provide emergency and permanent housing support and stabilization.
“These funds have been a lifeline for San Diegans, helping people take their first step toward stabilization and permanent housing,” said Dijana Beck, County director of the office of homeless solutions.
The Regional Homeless Assistance Program provides emergency housing by using local participating hotels as a first step into housing stabilization. This program serves individuals and families experiencing homelessness in the unincorporated area. In addition, wrap-around services provide case management and housing navigation services. Currently, this program serves up to 250 households on a given night. Since 2020, more than 2,700 people have had a safe place to sleep with 40% moving on to permanent housing.
The Local Rental Subsidy Program provides rental subsidies to transition people from emergency housing to permanency. The program is currently serving over 100 households in the unincorporated areas with up to two years of rental assistance and housing stabilization services and has previously served over 300 households.
At least 10% of the round six Housing and Homeless Assistance and Prevention funding will continue the Housing Our Youth program that serves youth ages 18-24 experiencing homelessness across the region. Since 2023, this program has served over 400 youth with connections to housing and supportive services.
The rest of the funding goes toward data, program administration and other housing stabilization services ensuring the path to self-sufficiency and permanent housing.
The County has accepted $52 million for Homeless Housing Assistance and Prevention since 2020 and is continuing to administer that funding to provide housing resources to those experiencing homelessness.
Securing homeless funds aligns with the County’s Framework for Ending Homelessness to improve the health and wellbeing of area residents by addressing the housing and service needs of people experiencing homelessness throughout the county.
