Being unhoused is a multifaceted issue in California. It looks different for many Californians. We have areas that experience developing or even third-world conditions, such as some farm worker housing and some of our Native Californian reservations. Some families live in their vehicles. Many Californians live paycheck to paycheck. I have spoken to my unhoused patients. One man who had a family with a home, but chose to live in the camp, told me, “It's just easier.” I know that people form family units living on the street or in camps.

The first steps to tackle this multilayered issue under my administration are by facilitating access to mental health and health care for all, funded by an increase in the alcohol tax. Since the 1980s, about 30% of the unhoused population has suffered from mental health issues. This is the fastest intervention that can help up to 30% of the unhoused population rapidly. I would facilitate field teams of health & mental health providers visiting homeless camps to provide services to those who would like them.

The next steps are to make housing more affordable and to provide more affordable living in California. Please click on those sections to see more.