By Bo Tefu, California Black Media

Gov. Gavin Newsom has announced a new program that aims to improve public safety through federally funded investments in supportive housing for individuals exiting incarceration. This initiative, collaboratively managed by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), seeks to reduce homelessness and recidivism among formerly incarcerated individuals.

The federal funding will help the state reduce homelessness and support those looking for a clean start by, “ensuring that those exiting our prison system have the resources and housing they need makes us all safer,” said Newsom.

Newsom stressed the importance of stable housing for successful reintegration. Formerly incarcerated individuals are nearly ten times more likely to experience homelessness, often facing barriers to public housing programs.

The HOME American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) Reentry Housing Pilot Project (RHPP) will allocate $16 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The program aims to provide safe, stable housing alongside comprehensive services that promote employment, education, and healthcare access, which are crucial for reducing recidivism rates.

Jeff Macomber, Secretary of the CDCR, said that the CDCR understands the impact of homelessness on California’s communities and is committed to enhancing public safety and promoting successful community reintegration.

“Housing stability is an important aspect to successful reentry, and this groundbreaking effort in partnership with HCD will provide a valuable opportunity to address these challenges,” said Macomber.

Applications for the program are now open until the Dec. 31, 2024, deadline. Initial funding awards are expected in the summer of 2025.

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