LEMON GROVE, CA – In a groundbreaking move to address the growing homelessness crisis, the city of Lemon Grove has been awarded an $8.4 million Encampment Resolution Funding grant from the state of California. This strategic investment will be directed toward rapid rehousing efforts, intensive support services, and long-term housing stability solutions—offering a lifeline to the city’s most vulnerable residents.
A Rising Crisis Demands Immediate Action
The latest 2024 Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH) Point-in-Time Count revealed a staggering 85% increase in unsheltered individuals in Lemon Grove compared to the previous year. This alarming surge marks the largest spike among all East County cities and ranks third highest in San Diego County, underscoring the urgent need for intervention.
To combat this crisis, the newly secured grant will be dedicated to rehousing efforts focused on individuals living in encampments along State Route 94 and North Avenue. With an estimated 150 people currently residing in these encampments, city leaders are taking swift action to implement a structured and supportive transition into stable housing.
Comprehensive Support for Long-Term Stability
The Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH) will oversee the program, ensuring that resources are strategically allocated to maximize impact. RTFH CEO Tamera Kohler confirmed that at least 85% of the grant funds will be utilized for direct outreach, engagement, rental subsidies, intensive care management, landlord partnerships, and critical wrap-around services aimed at securing long-term housing retention.
“This is not just about putting a roof over someone’s head. It’s about providing essential support—behavioral health services, addiction treatment, employment assistance, and family stabilization—to ensure lasting success,” Kohler emphasized.
Lemon Grove Mayor Alysson Snow echoed this sentiment, reinforcing that the initiative is about empowerment, not just aid.
“This is not a handout—it’s a hand up. Lemon Grove is a community of people who care, who believe in second chances, and who understand that homelessness can happen to anyone,” Snow said.
A Community-Driven Solution with Immediate Impact
Unlike many other housing initiatives that require new construction, Lemon Grove already has available housing units within the community that can accommodate those transitioning from encampments. This accelerates the rehousing process, allowing individuals to move into stable housing much sooner.
The funding will be issued within the next 90 days, and once the grant is activated, Lemon Grove and RTFH will have two years to fully utilize the funds—ensuring an efficient, results-driven approach to tackling homelessness.
Transforming Lives and Strengthening the Community
This grant represents more than just financial aid—it’s a turning point for Lemon Grove. By combining strategic funding, robust outreach, and holistic support services, the city is setting a new standard for compassionate, effective homelessness solutions.
With a strong community-driven approach, Lemon Grove is proving that homelessness is not an unsolvable crisis—it’s a challenge that can be met with bold leadership, targeted resources, and unwavering dedication to human dignity.