Los Angeles County is addressing the rapid rise among Latino residents experiencing homelessness, which increased by 26% from 2020 to 2022—more than triple the national rate. In response, the County’s Anti-Racism, Diversity, and Inclusion (ARDI) Initiative convened a task force to identify barriers such as language access, immigration status, and overcrowded housing. The County will partner with FUSE Executive Fellow Susana Santana to implement the task force’s recommendations and ensure culturally competent, equitable services that address Latino residents’ specific challenges in accessing housing stability.
Starting in October 2024, Santana will collaborate with County departments, the City of Los Angeles, and key stakeholders to develop a work plan, foster partnerships, and track progress. Santana will coordinate efforts with related initiatives, such as the Black People Experiencing Homelessness and American Indian and Alaskan Native homelessness programs, to align strategies and share best practices. Through this work, the ARDI Initiative will gain the systems and frameworks needed to monitor implementation, close resource gaps, and sustain long-term progress toward reducing disparities and improving outcomes for Latino residents at risk of or experiencing homelessness.
