It’s been long known that the issue of homelessness and lack of affordable housing continues to be a burgeoning crisis in Los Angeles. That’s why in 2008, the Los Angeles Housing + Community Investment Department (HCIDLA) partnered with the Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH) to create the vital Supportive Housing Loan Fund.
The Supportive Housing Loan Fund (SHLF) allows developers the opportunity to acquire properties that are prime candidates for supportive housing. In addition, and perhaps even more importantly, supportive services are also included to ensure that the individuals living there, particularly those that came directly from the street, remain stable and are given the chance to flourish. These services include an array of both on-site and community based services including mental health case management, independent living skills, money management, employment assistance and connection to healthcare. Support staff are available to help residents with everyday tasks such as managing medication, paying their bills on time and attending routine medical appointments. Star Apartments, for example, has an on-site health clinic that serves both its residents and area residents, expanding the reach of the Supportive Housing Loan Funds benefits to the entire community.
HCIDLA and CSH are fully committed to ending chronic homelessness in Los Angeles. This partnership ensures that the resources are available to continue making supportive housing available to the people who need it most. So far, the Supportive Housing Loan Fund has invested $66 million in 39 projects totaling nearly 2,500 supportive and affordable apartments for the most vulnerable Los Angelenos. It may be a small step in the grand scheme, but for now it remains a tremendous leap forward in the fight against homelessness.
