The city of Ventura has been awarded $9.8 million in grant funding through California’s Housing and Community Development (HCD) Encampment Resolution Funding (ERF) Program.

The grant will help provide services, shelter, and long-term housing solutions for individuals experiencing homelessness, particularly in the Ventura River bottom and other encampment areas.

“This grant will provide much-needed support for individuals living in encampments,” said Ventura Mayor Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios.

“Addressing homelessness remains a top priority for our City Council, and we are committed to investing in programs that tackle root causes while offering both immediate and long-term solutions,” Sanchez-Palacios said.

The city will use the funding to expand emergency shelter options, enhance supportive services like case management and mental health resources; and strengthen partnerships with the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura to create more permanent housing opportunities.

The city said it has already made progress in these areas through projects like the All Roads Connect to Housing (ARCH) shelter, a 55-bed, low-barrier facility developed with Mercy House and Ventura County. 

“We are excited to partner with HCD to expand permanent supportive housing options,” said Rachel Dimond, community development director. “This grant will be instrumental in advancing both temporary and long-term housing strategies identified in the City Council’s recent strategic priorities.”

For more on the city’s housing programs and resources, visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/HousingServices.