This week, the Senate introduced their bipartisan “No Place Like
Home” Initiative to address homelessness in California. Members
kicked off the initiative with two press conferences, one in Los
Angeles – which can be viewed here – and the other in Sacramento.
The initiative seeks to divert between $120-130 million in MHSA
funds annually, over 20 to 30 years to service a $2 billion
housing bond to construct permanent supportive housing for
chronically homeless persons with mental illness. Other key
components include:
$2 billion bond to construct permanent supportive housing for
chronically homeless persons with mental illness
$200 million, over 4 years, to provide supportive housing in the
shorter-term, rent subsidies, while the permanent housing is
constructed or rehabilitated
Support for two-special housing programs to assist families:
Bringing Family Home” pilot project, a county matching grant
program. CalWORKs Housing Support Program which provides housing
and support services for CalWORKs families in danger of
homelessness.
An increase in SSI/SSP grants, which are currently among
the lowest in the nation.
A one-time investment to incentivize local governments to boost
outreach efforts and advocacy to get more eligible people into
SSI/SSP.
The Governor’s budget did not address the Senate’s proposal;
however we anticipate much more discussion and will remain
engaged as the legislative session proceeds.
