Homelessness has proven to be an enduring and complex modern problem which crosses many disciplines, populations, and boundaries. Homelessness does not respect political boundaries in counties and cities, and responsibilities cross and intersect with many county and city departments, and even state and federal agencies, such as the VA. Within counties, the issue intersects with the public safety, social services, public health, behavioral health, even the public works department. Yet a number of counties are taking on homelessness through a variety of collaborative approaches – both in policy and practice. This class will engage participants to explore many facets of homelessness, from decriminalization to treatment of root causes to prevention, and how counties are thinking about policies and collaborative programs to address it. Several case studies will be examined.

Facilitators:  Humboldt County Supervisor Virginia Bass and Yolo County Supervisor Oscar Villegas.