Futures First: HomeBase

Affordable housing and homelessness

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

Youth homelessness, as addressed by initiatives like Futures First: HomeBase, is a complex issue affecting young adults aged 16-24 in Long Beach and Compton, as well as statewide across California. It stems from economic instability, family breakdowns, foster care aging out, and mental health challenges, compounded by a lack of affordable housing. These young individuals often face trauma and struggle to access education and stable employment. The initiative aims to provide not just housing but also comprehensive support including education, vocational training, and mental health services, fostering resilience and community integration.

Firstly, Futures First: HomeBase will leverage our scattered-site housing model across various locations in Long Beach and Compton, including transitional housing, subsidized units. This approach ensures flexibility and responsiveness to local needs while promoting community integration among participants.
Secondly, the initiative focuses on comprehensive support services tailored to the unique challenges faced by homeless youth. This includes access case/care management , benefits enrollment, education programs and coaching, workforce training, mental health counseling and navigation, and life skills development. By addressing these needs holistically, the program empowers young adults to regain stability and pursue long-term independence.
Our established partnerships include the City of Long Beach and City of Compton, housing providers, educational institutions, and local community organizations will enhance service delivery and maximize resources. This collaborative approach not only leverages expertise but also ensures that the initiative remains grounded in the realities of the communities it serves.
Additionally, the initiative emphasizes sustainability and scalability. By documenting best practices and outcomes, Futures First: HomeBase aims to create a replicable model that can be adapted and implemented in other regions facing similar challenges statewide.

By significantly reducing homelessness among youth aged 16-24 in Long Beach, Compton, and across the county, the initiative will ensure fewer young people experience the harsh realities of living on the streets or in unstable housing conditions. This will lead to a more stable and resilient youth population, equipped with the stability and support needed to pursue education, employment, and personal growth effectively. The success of Futures First: HomeBase will not only address the immediate housing needs of young adults but also contribute to broader community benefits. It will foster stronger community cohesion and support systems, as housed youth become active participants in civic life and economic activities. This social integration will contribute to a safer and more inclusive community environment, where all members feel valued and supported.

Evidence of the program's success includes positive trends in housing stability rates, educational and vocational achievements among participants, and reduced rates of recidivism into homelessness. Stakeholder testimonials and case studies further illustrate the personal transformations and community benefits resulting from Futures First: HomeBase.
By consistently measuring these impacts and refining strategies based on data-driven insights, the initiative not only validates its effectiveness but also informs continuous improvement efforts. This approach ensures that Futures First: HomeBase remains responsive to the evolving needs of homeless youth in Los Angeles County, contributing to sustainable solutions and systemic change in addressing youth homelessness
In Long Beach our project has contributed to there has been a significant decrease in homelessness among the youngest populations. Specifically, homelessness among individuals aged 18 to 24 years old decreased by 49.7%.