The nonprofit People Assisting the Homeless, which helps people in Los Angeles and other California areas find permanent housing and receive supportive services, released its three-year plan Monday with goals to provide permanent housing to an additional 6,000 people and address racial disparities within homelessness.
PATH also plans to build or renovate 1,000 homes for people who have experienced homelessness and provide 75,000 people with food, outreach, interim housing and employment assistance over the next three years.
Part of the effort will focus on racial disparities and inclusivity. According to PATH, 40% of California’s homeless population is Black, while the state’s general population is only 6.5% Black. Under the plan, the nonprofit will work to address racial disparities within homelessness by focusing on organizational practices and policies at all levels, officials said.
The nonprofit is incorporating new training practices and will hire a staff member to manage Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives across the organization.
“The inclusivity that is embedded in this strategic plan is indicative of PATH’s commitment to equity and racial justice. We brought together diverse voices to shape the future of an organization that fights for everyone’s right to a home,” PATH Chief Regional Officer and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee member Jonathan Castillo said.
PATH will work to address structural causes of homelessness by being proactive to influence public policy, officials said. A Board Policy Committee will be established to review policy positions, set a policy agenda and develop mobilization strategies to engage with policy makers.
“We all have a role in shaping public policy and our board members have committed to using our experience, expertise, and influence to ensure bold and decisive action is taken to reduce homelessness across the state,” PATH board member Shane Goldsmith said.
PATH was founded in Los Angeles in 1984 and has rapidly grown since 2015, when it only operated in Los Angeles and San Diego counties. Since then, it has expanded with regional hubs in Los Angeles/Long Beach, Orange County, Sacramento County, San Diego County, San Jose/ Silicon Valley and Santa Barbara/Central Coast.
The organization estimates that it provides services to about 20% of California’s homeless population.