California's Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) has made significant strides in addressing homelessness and behavioral health challenges through its Behavioral Health Bridge Housing (BHBH) Program. By the end of 2024, this initiative has already committed more than $1 billion across 57 county behavioral health agencies (CBHAs) to provide critical housing support for individuals experiencing homelessness with serious mental illness or substance use disorders.

The BHBH Program focuses on "bridge housing" solutions, offering temporary but stable accommodations such as tiny homes, interim housing, rental assistance models, and assisted living facilities. Beyond housing, the program incorporates voluntary supportive services aimed at helping participants achieve long-term stability and recovery, including mental health management, substance use support, and wellness planning.

BHBH Grants Awarded To Date

Since its inception in mid-2023, the BHBH Program has been structured in multiple funding rounds:

• Round 1 Funding (Summer 2023): Over $900 million was allocated to CBHAs statewide to launch and maintain bridge housing programs through June 2027. By July 2024, 57 of the 58 counties had begun implementing these services.
• Round 3 Funding (Summer 2024): A competitive allocation of $132.5 million was awarded to 10 counties to enhance or expand existing projects and develop new housing initiatives. Implementation for these projects will continue through June 2027.

Addressing Housing Gaps Across California

The map below (which you can interact with on the BHBH website) allows users to explore county-specific funding allocations and service types. Los Angeles County, which received $321 million in total funding, leads the state in its efforts to provide a wide range of services, including outreach, shelter, and auxiliary support. Statewide, over $463 million has been directed toward shelter and interim housing alone, making it the largest service category.

The map also provides an overview of how funds are distributed among essential services:

• Housing navigation: $101 million
• Rental assistance: $67 million
• Start-up infrastructure: $101 million
• Auxiliary funding: $127 million
• Outreach and engagement: $18 million

Future Outlook

As the state continues to tackle homelessness and behavioral health crises, DHCS has announced a third round of funding scheduled for early 2025. These funds will prioritize strategic enhancements to existing programs, addressing gaps in housing and services.

With implementation well underway, the BHBH Program exemplifies California's commitment to leveraging innovative, community-focused solutions to improve the lives of its most vulnerable residents.