County launches new housing program for residents with behavioral needs

Program funded by a $7.5 million grant from the California Department of Health Care Services

– San Luis Obispo County has introduced the Behavioral Health Bridge Housing program, providing 18 new housing units for individuals experiencing homelessness with severe behavioral health conditions. The program, a first of its kind in the county, is a collaborative effort between the County of San Luis Obispo Behavioral Health and Transitions-Mental Health Association (TMHA). It is funded by a $7.5 million grant from the California Department of Health Care Services.

The program offers transitional housing and supportive services for those dealing with mental health and substance use disorders. The program aims to help residents transition into permanent housing while reducing the risk of relapse into homelessness.

“Having somewhere to call home is one of the most important steps to achieving a healthy lifestyle,” said Behavioral Health Director Star Graber. “Without structure or a consistent and safe place to live, recovery from a mental health or substance use disorder becomes harder to achieve. We are hopeful that this program can offer many residents the chance to find the care they need so they may focus on their recovery journey.”

The most recent Point in Time count conducted by the county recorded 1,175 individuals experiencing homelessness, with 800 of them unsheltered. The new housing units contribute to the San Luis Obispo Countywide Plan to Address Homelessness. The program includes eight units offering standard rental assistance for up to two years, allowing residents to participate in treatment, while the remaining 10 units provide short-term housing (typically 12 months) with on-site licensed healthcare staff available 24/7.

“This is a really unique opportunity for our county to address homelessness and behavioral health challenges at the same time,” said Morgan Torell, Behavioral Health Bridge Housing Manager. “No one wants to be in the situation where they are ready to recover from their illness, but cannot find safe, or affordable housing to support that healing. This program offers a solution that many individuals and families in our community have been waiting for.”

TMHA has a history of providing supportive housing for at-risk individuals. Barry Johnson, TMHA’s Deputy Director, noted that supportive environments significantly aid those in recovery. “We are pleased to be part of a project that expands those opportunities,” Johnson said.

Eligible individuals can apply for Behavioral Health Bridge Housing by contacting Transitions-Mental Health Association at (805) 540-6500. More information about program admission, the referral process, and costs is available here.

For more details on the programs and services offered by the San Luis Obispo County Health Agency, click here.