Homeless individuals in California has increased in the past few years
(Photo : Reuters)

Governor Gavin Newsome is asking state lawmakers in California to funnel $1.4 billion to combat the growing crisis in homelessness.

Gov. Newsome promised last year to build more shelters, emergency housing, and to design programs that would alleviate the crisis in the state that is costing tax payers billions of dollars. Newsome said that Californians are treating homelessness as a real emergency. 

Newsome said in one of the interviews, "Californians are demanding that all levels of government - federal, state and local - do more to get people off the streets and into services - whether that's housing, mental health services, substance abuse treatment or all of the above." 

The money he is asking from lawmakers will go directly to people who need it the most. The governor added that the budget will be intended for preventive measures that include healthcare and rent assistance. NBC News reports that Newsome said, "[We're] using every tool in the toolbox - from proposing a massive new infusion of state dollars in the budget that goes directly to homeless individuals' emergency housing and treatment programs, to building short-term emergency housing on vacant state-owned land."

The political will of the governor in requesting the budget for the homeless was appreciated by different advocates and officials. However, they also acknowledged that the budget will not be enough to get everyone off the streets, as of right now, there are 151,000 homeless individuals in California.

According to the president of the National Alliance to End Homelessness, based in Washington, D.C., Nan Roman "It covers the major direct issues related to homelessness, shelter, housing, social services and whether it's the right amount of money I can't say ... but it seems like it's hitting the right things."

Meanwhile, Los Angeles has the largest homeless population. The city's homeless population has increased to 16 percent from 2018 to 2019 or a total of 36,000 individuals. Mayor Eric Garcetti, said that the top priority of the Angelenos is to solve homelessness. Likewise, this is also the top priority of people all across the state. He also added that this should be reflected as urgent when it comes to the state budget. 

The county's spokesman said that the mayor is very grateful for setting aside an additional budget to address problems related to homelessness.

It was mentioned by Newsome that housing costs in the state have spiked behind low unemployment rates and entrepreneurial spirit. These problems have led its people to financial problems. Also, many were deprived of accessible housing because of these issues.

An amount of $750 million was signed by the governor on Wednesday to help pay rent, fund affordable housing, and expand a safety net for individuals who are at risk. Moreover, an additional $650 million was added as an emergency aid that will go to cities and counties that have pressing needs.

Newsome also mentioned that he wants to use state-owned land for the housing of homeless individuals and will also make changes to the state's Medicaid program.

Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg said: "We can no longer make the imperative of getting people off the street a voluntary act by the government and the proposal is bold, and it expresses a strong commitment by the governor. The resources will be deeply appreciated and well-used."

According to the governor's office they have allotted $3 billion to combat homelessness over the past two years. However, the budget seems to be too small as the number of homeless individuals has jumped considerably in the past year.