California Awards $131 Million to Help Clear Homeless Encampments, Introduces New Accountability

California Awards $131 Million to Help Clear Homeless Encampments, Introduces New Accountability MeasuresPhoto byEvonUnsplash

SACRAMENTO — In a continued effort to address California's homelessness crisis, Governor Gavin Newsom announced nearly $131 million in new grants to help 18 local communities clear dangerous homeless encampments and provide shelter and care for those in need. The funding is part of the state's broader initiative, with $1 billion committed to encampment resolution efforts.

Governor Newsom emphasized the urgency of the issue, stating, "We’re supporting local communities to get people out of encampments and connected with care and housing across the state."

These new funds are projected to help 3,364 people currently living in encampments and permanently house 1,565 individuals. Since the launch of the Encampment Resolution Fund (ERF), the state has invested $737 million in 109 projects, assisting over 20,000 people.

In addition to financial support, Governor Newsom is introducing stricter accountability measures. Local governments receiving funding must comply with all state housing laws or risk losing their grants and facing further enforcement actions. These measures ensure that the $27 billion allocated for homelessness initiatives delivers tangible results.