The Californer - California: Governor Newsom Announces Homeless Funding, Calls for Greater Accountability

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~ Governor Gavin Newsom held a virtual press conference today to announce the allocation of nearly $200 million in state funds to address homelessness in California. Along with this funding, the Governor also announced new measures to increase oversight and accountability for how these funds are used by local jurisdictions.

During the press conference, Governor Newsom stated, "This new funding will get people out of tents and into housing across California. As the state provides unprecedented resources like this, we also expect accountability. Local governments must ensure this funding is being utilized on the ground." He emphasized the importance of ensuring that these funds are being used effectively to help those experiencing homelessness.

The $192 million in funding will be distributed through the Encampment Resolution Fund (ERF) grants, which are administered by the California Interagency Council on Homelessness (Cal ICH). These grants will support 20 projects in 17 communities throughout California, with the goal of helping individuals transition from encampments into permanent housing.

Secretary Tomiquia Moss of the Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency, who co-chairs Cal ICH, stated, "These grants show what is possible when the state partners with local communities to put people first and provide them with services to put them on the path to safe, stable housing." She emphasized that this approach focuses on providing personalized solutions for individuals experiencing homelessness.

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Meghan Marshall, Executive Officer of Cal ICH, added that all 17 communities had strong proposals for addressing homelessness and helping individuals transition into housing. While these grants will be administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development, Cal ICH will provide technical assistance based on evidence-based practices to support their success.

The list of jurisdictions receiving funds includes cities such as Anaheim, Chico, Fresno, Los Banos, Oakland, Oceanside, Ojai, San Bernardino and Santa Cruz. The Humboldt County Continuum of Care and Los Angeles County will also receive funding, along with Marin, Monterey, Nevada, Santa Barbara, and San Mateo counties. The Tehama County Continuum of Care will also receive funding.

These projects are expected to provide services and support for nearly 3,600 individuals, with 2,200 of them receiving permanent housing. Twelve of the 20 projects are specifically designed to address encampments along state rights-of-way.

For more information on the specific projects and a detailed breakdown of the funding allocation, please visit the Cal ICH website. Additionally, a fact sheet on homeless accountability has been provided for further understanding of the measures being taken to ensure effective use of these funds.

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