California has implemented a wide range of programs to address homelessness, focusing on prevention, emergency assistance, and long-term housing solutions.
These initiatives, administered by state agencies and local organizations, aim to support individuals and families experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. Below is a summary of the main homeless assistance programs in California:
CalWORKs Homeless Assistance (HA) Program
The CalWORKs HA program provides financial assistance to eligible families receiving CalWORKs benefits who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. Services include payments for temporary housing for up to 16 consecutive days and financial assistance to obtain or maintain housing, such as security deposits, the last month’s rent, or rent arrears. This support is available once every 12 months, with certain exceptions.
CalWORKs Housing Support Program (HSP)
The HSP offers housing stability to CalWORKs families by helping them secure permanent housing. The program provides temporary housing, moving assistance, short- and medium-term rental subsidies, and comprehensive case management to address barriers to housing stability.
Homeless Emergency Assistance Program (HEAP)
Established to provide localities with flexible block grant funding, HEAP addresses the immediate challenges of homelessness. Administered by the California Homeless Coordinating and Financing Council (HCFC), the program supports various initiatives, including emergency shelter, rental assistance, and supportive services tailored to local needs.
Project Roomkey and Project Homekey
Launched in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Project Roomkey provided temporary shelter using vacant hotel and motel rooms to protect vulnerable homeless individuals. Based on this, Project Homekey focuses on converting hotels, motels, and other buildings into permanent, affordable housing, expanding the state’s capacity to house homeless individuals.
Housing and Homelessness Incentive Program (HHIP)
Integrated into Medi-Cal, California’s Medicaid program, the HHIP encourages managed care plans to invest in addressing homelessness and housing instability among beneficiaries. The program promotes cross-sector collaborations and innovative approaches to improve the health of homeless individuals.
Local Initiatives
Several counties and cities have established tailored programs to address homelessness in their communities. For example, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) coordinates housing and services for individuals and families in Los Angeles County. Residents can access resources by contacting LAHSA or calling 2-1-1 for assistance.
Those seeking assistance are encouraged to contact their local county social services agency or call 2-1-1, a free and confidential service that connects people with essential health and human services, including housing assistance.
These programs reflect California’s multifaceted approach to combating homelessness, emphasizing prevention, immediate assistance, and the development of long-term, sustainable housing solutions.
Official Links:
CalWORKS Homeless Assistance – Click Here
Housing and Homelessness Programs – Click Here
HUD Assistance – Click Here
Medi-Cal for Homeless – Click Here
- Homefirst Down Payment Assistance Program - March 31, 2025
- Memorial Hermann Financial Assistance - March 30, 2025
- Help With Rent, Housing, Food, Clothes, & Hotel Vouchers in Mississippi, MS - March 27, 2025