In San Diego County, a significant portion of the homeless population is comprised of older adults, with around one-third of individuals experiencing homelessness being 55 years or older, according to last year’s point-in-time count.
This demographic often faces unique challenges that demand tailored solutions.
To address these issues, the Office of Homeless Solutions for the County of San Diego has implemented measures aimed at preventing homelessness before it occurs, including providing monthly rental subsidies to older residents.
Deanna Beck, the director of the Office of Homeless Solutions, emphasizes the vulnerability of older adults to homelessness, citing a rising population in this category that often faces stagnating incomes, health issues, and increasing housing costs.
The program specifically targets individuals aged 55 and older who are rent burdened, meaning they expend more than 50% of their income on housing costs.
Eligible participants receive a $500 monthly subsidy for 18 months, along with case management services to explore additional options and an evaluation component to assess the program’s effectiveness.
Originally allocated funds for 222 households, the program expanded after receiving additional funding for another 160 households, with the initial phase expected to conclude in 2026.
While the shallow rental subsidy program acts as a preventive measure, expanding affordable housing remains a crucial part of the strategy to combat homelessness in the region.
In addition to prevention, the county’s plan includes creating permanent housing, diversion programs, and emergency housing options to support individuals on the brink of homelessness.
Beck shared stories from the program, including that of an elderly man facing the choice between medication and rent, where the rental subsidy alleviated financial pressure and significantly improved quality of life.
Despite the encouraging initiatives, challenges persist.
Recent reports indicate that, in the past three years, the number of newly homeless people has outpaced those being housed, highlighting the ongoing crisis.
However, Beck noted some positive trends, where recent data showed a slight improvement in the housing stability of seniors, suggesting the impact of various services introduced in recent years.
The Office of Homeless Solutions also acknowledges the need for accessible program enrollment, especially for older adults who may struggle with technology or mobility issues.
Efforts were made to simplify the application process, including providing support directly in people’s homes and ensuring that the necessary documentation was straightforward.
While the evaluation of the program’s long-term success will depend on ongoing data collection, early observations demonstrate the program’s effectiveness in preventing homelessness among its participants.
As the community seeks solutions, the San Diego Shared Housing Collaborative is exploring another avenue for addressing housing needs.
Melissa Peterman, the executive director of the affordable housing nonprofit Townspeople, explained how shared housing provides a solution for individuals struggling with housing affordability.
With limited options for studios and one-bedroom apartments, many people find themselves priced out of the rental market, especially those with low to moderate incomes.
The program allows multiple individuals to share a home, providing each person with their own room while sharing common spaces.
This arrangement not only makes housing more accessible but also promotes community and companionship, which can mitigate the isolation often experienced by those facing homelessness.
Individuals interested in the shared housing program can submit their information through an online portal, where staff assists with the matching process and even helps facilitate in-person meetups to ensure compatibility among potential housemates.
Currently, eligibility for the program is loosely defined, focusing on those experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk, and requiring participants to have some means of covering their portion of housing expenses.
While the collaborative does not currently offer long-term rental assistance, there are flexible funding options available for security deposits or utilities.
As the program evolves, efforts are being made to gather data on participant outcomes to better understand its long-term impact.
Peterman highlighted the flexibility and adaptability of the collaborative, noting its commitment to addressing the complex crisis of homelessness in the San Diego area while filling gaps in existing services.
By connecting residents with shared housing solutions, San Diego is taking strides toward a more inclusive and supportive housing model for those in need.
image source from：https://www.kpbs.org/podcasts/kpbs-midday-edition/exploring-rental-subsidies-and-shared-housing-in-san-diego
