Riverside County Expands Efforts to Address Homelessness

Riverside County Expands Efforts to Address HomelessnessPhoto byRiverside County

Riverside County is taking a regional, multi-pronged approach to address homelessness by partnering with local jurisdictions, key service providers, and various county agencies. Their strategy includes offering housing, support services, and holistic care through collaboration with behavioral health experts, social workers, medical teams, law enforcement, and animal services.

"We are committed to addressing homelessness with compassion and collaboration," stated Fifth District Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez. "This project is about more than just clearing encampments—it's about providing hope, dignity, and a pathway to a better future for all residents."

High housing costs, a lack of affordable options, and family disruptions, such as domestic violence, are among the leading causes of homelessness in Riverside County. These trends mirror challenges faced throughout California and across the U.S.

In 2019, Riverside County secured state funding through the Encampment Resolution Funding (ERF) Program, enabling the county to house 150 residents who had been living in the Santa Ana Riverbed. Additional funding allowed the program to expand, providing housing for 28 more individuals from the San Jacinto Riverbed. In line with Governor Gavin Newsom's Executive Order N-1-24, the county has increased efforts to resolve encampments and offer permanent housing.

As the lead agency for the county's Homeless Continuum of Care (CoC), Riverside County ensures that one in three individuals facing homelessness receives support. Despite the county facing a six percent increase in requests for homeless services during the 2023-24 fiscal year, securing additional state and federal resources remains a priority.

For more information on county resources, or to seek assistance for someone experiencing homelessness, visit rivcohhpws.org.

Why This Matters:
Addressing homelessness is critical not only for those directly impacted but for the broader community. Riverside County’s collaborative approach aims to break the cycle of homelessness and offer lasting solutions, emphasizing compassion and dignity.

Clarification:

1. The Encampment Resolution Funding (ERF) Program helps transition people from homeless encampments into permanent housing.
2. Riverside County’s Continuum of Care (CoC) collaborates with service providers to offer resources to those experiencing homelessness.

Call to Action:
Join Riverside County’s mission to end homelessness by supporting local initiatives or spreading awareness of available resources. Visit the county's website to learn how you can make a difference.