Affordable housing and housing stability are important drivers of positive health outcomes and is a high priority for Lake County residents. Stable housing is associated with economic stability and quality of life.
"Many Lake County residents feel unsafe and fear the rise in crime and substance abuse in the community was related to homelessness."
—Focus Group Participant
From our survey...
Housing support is needed for the community
In 2018, 3 fires scorched over 93,000 acres combined and destroyed buildings and other housing structures. With the fires, according to interviewees, rents increased and housing become even more unaffordable. The numbers of homeless have increased in the county correspondingly.
2017 Point in Time Count Summarized by Sub-Population
Homeless individuals may need specialized services or focused outreach
Since these groups may experience less access to mental health services overall, whether through the perception that they can’t afford it, or because of the stigma associated with those two statuses. There is strong evidence that supportive housing to homeless individuals with a medical need like a chronic condition or behavioral health problem reduces Emergency Department visits, admissions, and inpatient days and results in large decreases in health care costs.
Free housing for young professionals could be the solution to many problems in the community
Costs of housing was one of the primary reasons for the county’s inability to attract talent. There is a shortage of housing and an unaffordability due to low median income.
Programs and Initiatives
Hope Center
Hope Center’s mission is to provide individualized services for our neighbors experiencing homelessness who are motivated to change, regardless of barriers, so that they can make homes and become their best selves.