Los Angeles County, home to one of the largest homeless populations in the United States, is prioritizing racial equity in its response to homelessness, recognizing that Black residents—though only 10% of the population—make up 30% of those experiencing homelessness. The County is partnering with FUSE Executive Fellow Ni Kal S. Price to advance the recommendations of the Ad Hoc Committee on Black People Experiencing Homelessness (BPEH), which seeks to address systemic disparities through culturally responsive services, equitable access to resources, and improved accountability within the homelessness crisis response system. This effort aligns with the County’s broader Anti-Racism, Diversity, and Inclusion (ARDI) Initiative, creating a foundation for meaningful, data-driven change in the County’s approach to homelessness.
Starting in October 2024, Price will build relationships with stakeholders across government, community organizations, and individuals with lived homelessness experience to gather insights and align efforts. Price will develop an accountability framework to track the progress of the BPEH recommendations and coordinate with County departments to ensure consistent implementation and data reporting. This work will close resource gaps and improve service delivery by fostering collaboration between the ARDI Initiative, the Homeless Initiative, and the Los Angeles Homelessness Service Authority. Price’s efforts will provide lasting infrastructure to sustain equity-driven homeless services across Los Angeles County, creating a more inclusive continuum of care for years to come.
