As California continues to grapple with a growing homelessness crisis, Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the availability of $3.3 billion for counties and private developers to build behavioral health treatment centers. This funding comes from a ballot measure passed by voters in March, which authorizes the state to borrow nearly $6.4 billion for the construction of 4,350 housing units. These funds will be used to address the housing and drug use programs for homeless individuals with serious mental illnesses or substance abuse problems. Applications for the money will open in July, and the focus is on building quickly to address the urgent need for additional treatment centers.
Governor Newsom has made homelessness a top priority, committing to transform the state’s mental health system and provide necessary resources to address the homelessness crisis. California is home to nearly a third of the homeless population in the United States, with approximately 171,000 individuals in need of housing. The state currently has 5,500 behavioral health beds, but an additional 8,000 units are needed to treat mental health and addiction issues. The grant money announced by Newsom will fund a variety of programs, including crisis facilities, addiction programs, outpatient services, and locked treatment beds, with a focus on filling gaps in local services.
Despite the urgent need for additional housing and treatment facilities, some social providers and county officials have expressed concerns about the new funding structure and potential impacts on existing programs. Disability rights advocates are also worried about the possibility of more individuals being locked up against their will. However, state Senator Susan Eggman, who was involved in the creation of the ballot measure, emphasized the importance of addressing the need for expanded treatment options. The state will evaluate proposed projects based on gaps in local services to ensure that resources are allocated effectively.
Governor Newsom and administration officials have indicated that the application process for funding will be streamlined, with a focus on moving quickly to provide needed services. Proposals for renovation of existing facilities could open in a matter of months, and the state aims to approve projects in the fall to disperse funds to local governments by early next year. The bond funding allocated for counties will allow them to accelerate the implementation of much-needed services, according to Mark Callagy, the executive officer in San Mateo County. Newsom has also criticized counties for delays in implementing programs to address mental health and addiction issues, urging them to take action to address the homelessness crisis.
In addition to the behavioral health treatment centers, the state also has plans to make bond funding available for housing by the end of the year. This funding, totaling nearly $2 billion, will support existing housing initiatives, including efforts to convert rundown motels into homeless housing. Governor Newsom’s administration is working to address the complex and multifaceted issues contributing to homelessness in California, with a focus on providing resources and support to help individuals in need. The funding announced by Newsom is a significant step towards addressing the homelessness crisis and expanding access to vital mental health and addiction treatment services across the state.
