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LOS ANGELES (CNS) - The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors today approved $10 million in funding for cities and local Councils of Governments who need help paying for supportive services at interim housing sites.
Supervisors Hilda Solis and Kathryn Barger co-authored the motion recommending the fund.
``Local jurisdictions have proven that they are active partners in finding a solution to homelessness," Solis said. ``Across the First District, many cities and COGs have been working to expand the supply of interim housing resources locally, particularly in areas that historically have had limited housing resources for people experiencing homelessness.''
However, many jurisdictions lack to the funding to cover services at these sites, while Solis said the county has enough targeted federal and state dollars to help.
She highlighted a number of new projects, including ``tiny homes'' projects in the Baldwin Park and Montebello with 25 interim beds each. Redondo Beach opened a ``pallet shelter'' last December, while El Monte purchased two motels set to open soon to people experiencing homelessness.
Barger said the role of cities is critical in the fight against homelessness.
``Our cities have become ground zero -- the front line where individuals are linked to service providers, housing navigation and critical wrap-around services,'' Barger said.
``Their role as a touch point in the homeless services delivery system is critical to crafting effective strategies that will help end homelessness.''
The board directed the CEO to set up the fund and make the dollars accessible to cities by Jan. 1.
A report is expected back in 30 days with details on eligible project types and incentives for matching funding.