The Brief

Los Angeles County Establishes $843 Million Department to Combat Homelessness

In a decisive move to address the homelessness crisis, Los Angeles County allocates $843 million to its new Department of Homeless Services and Housing.

In a significant step to tackle the escalating homelessness crisis, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has approved a budget of $843 million for the newly established Department of Homeless Services and Housing (HSH). This department is set to assume responsibilities previously managed by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), a transition prompted by audits highlighting LAHSA's lack of transparency in financial tracking. The decision comes on the heels of Measure A, a half-cent sales tax implemented across the county, projected to generate approximately $1 billion annually for homelessness initiatives. The HSH is tasked with providing housing solutions, managing rental assistance programs, and conducting outreach to the homeless population. This restructuring aims to streamline efforts and enhance accountability in addressing homelessness. Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, a proponent of the new department, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Los Angeles County will not allow our public property to be used by ICE to cause harm and to frighten people away from receiving services and support." The establishment of HSH is part of a broader strategy to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of homelessness services in the region. By centralizing these efforts under a dedicated county department, officials hope to create a more coordinated response to the crisis, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively and that services are delivered in a timely manner. This move also reflects a growing trend among local governments to take more direct control over services that significantly impact their communities. By assuming responsibility for homelessness services, Los Angeles County aims to implement policies and programs that are more closely aligned with the specific needs of its residents. The success of the HSH will be closely monitored, as it represents a substantial investment in addressing one of the county's most pressing issues. Stakeholders, including local residents, advocacy groups, and policymakers, will be watching to see if this new approach leads to tangible improvements in reducing homelessness and providing support to those in need.

ℹ️ Researched and summarized from public reporting. Check the sources below.

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