Gov. Gavin Newsom (Photo – gov.ca.go)Gov. Gavin Newsom announced new accountability measures and nearly $291 million in funding to expand housing and behavioral health services across California after the state reported its first statewide drop in unsheltered homelessness in more than 15 years, a 9% decline.
By News Desk
The announcement strengthens implementation of the Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment Act (CARE Act), a program that connects people living with severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia to treatment, housing, and support services through a court-supervised care plan. Since launching statewide in 2024, more than 3,800 CARE petitions have been filed, and over 4,000 people have been connected to services without requiring court intervention.
Ten counties were recognized as “CARE Champions” for successfully implementing the program, while another ten will receive additional oversight and support to improve participation and outcomes.
The effort is part of a broader expansion of California’s behavioral health system, funded in part by Proposition 1 (California 2024 behavioral health bond), a $6.4 billion initiative approved by voters in 2024 to increase treatment beds, outpatient care, and supportive housing for people experiencing homelessness and mental health challenges.
Officials say the latest investments will also fund 443 new supportive housing units for veterans and others at risk of homelessness, along with expanded local programs focused on prevention and long-term housing stability.
State leaders say the strategy combines treatment, housing expansion, and stronger local accountability to reduce homelessness and connect vulnerable residents with sustained care and support.