September 19, 2024

What’s in the News:

Governor Gavin Newsom and the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) today released a program overview of Homekey+, which will provide approximately $2 billion in bond construction funding under Proposition 1 to build permanent supportive housing for veterans and individuals with behavioral health challenges who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness.

The Homekey+ program overview provides a framework of anticipated program requirements and invites stakeholder comment via targeted questions to help inform the development of the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) release anticipated for November 2024.

Why This Matters to Counties

Proposition 1 was approved by California voters in March 2024. The $2 billion in Homekey+ funding emphasizes the acquisition and rehabilitation of existing buildings, or other project types, which can be quickly converted or constructed for permanent affordable housing.

While these funds are a welcome infusion of one-time support to develop and expand behavioral health treatment and Permanent Supportive Housing, they are not a solution to the larger structural challenges that persist in the state’s response to homelessness.

To make meaningful and sustainable progress on homelessness, we need a comprehensive response system similar to those in place for all other major policy areas like education, child welfare, health care, and transportation. Such a system requires addressing substantial gaps in responsibilities, and sustained, ongoing funding aligned to those responsibilities from the state, just as is done in all other major policy areas.

What Counties are Saying

Bruce Gibson, San Luis Obispo County Supervisor and CSAC President

“Delivering housing and getting people off the streets are things we can all agree on. This is just the start, a long term plan is needed to truly benefit all Californians.”

Jason Britt, Tulare County CAO

“State funding for infrastructure is necessary to make progress on homelessness and is appreciated. Tulare County needs ongoing funding in behavioral health and homelessness to make meaningful progress on the Governor’s goals to end homelessness and actually make a difference.”

Chris Lopez, Monterey County Supervisor

“No single part of our government – local, state or federal – can solve homelessness alone. Like so many others, state funding and partnerships are essential in my county to address this crisis.”

Rex Bohn, Humboldt County Supervisor ​

“Too often, rural communities are left behind by state programs for homelessness and behavioral health services. Sticking to a real plan and committing to steady investment will help my community and others like us.”

Sevet Johnson, Ventura County CAO

“The County of Ventura is pleased with the Governor’s action to add critical funding to the Proposition 1 allocation via the Homekey+ program. Upon passage of Proposition 1, our County has worked swiftly to identify opportunities to house and support individuals that are experiencing mental health challenges. The increased focus on supporting our community is welcome and these funds will go far to advance our Homekey projects and open doors to new prospects.”

Graham Knaus, CSAC Chief Executive Officer

“Millions of Californians with behavioral health conditions rely on services and supports that are provided by California’s 58 counties. Some of those individuals also struggle with homelessness and closing significant gaps in state, city, and county responsibilities, along with long-term investments from the state, are paramount for real progress.”