The Doll Houze (Pilot Project)

Affordable housing and homelessness

Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)

Our community in Los Angeles faces a pressing issue, as highlighted by the 2023 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count. This count revealed a 9% increase in homelessness on any given night in LA County, reaching an estimated 75,518 people. Specifically, the City of Los Angeles experienced a 10% rise, bringing the total to an estimated 46,260 people. These staggering figures underscore the severity of homelessness, with a significant portion being from the LGBTQ+ community, constituting 26% of the homeless population. Hands Across Hollywood understands the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ homeless population, especially transgender individuals who encounter discrimination and a lack of safe housing options. Our community grapples with the repercussions of homelessness, including the exacerbation of mental health struggles, discrimination, and trauma. We want to focus on providing safe, affordable housing and support services tailored to the specific needs of LGBTQ+ individuals.

This grant is vital for scaling our operations, enhancing our programs, and making a lasting impact on those we serve and the broader community. By supporting Hands Across Hollywood, you will help transform lives, revitalize communities, and promote inclusivity and belonging throughout Los Angeles.
Property Acquisition and Renovation:
Secure and renovate distressed properties to provide safe, affordable housing. We collaborate with real estate agents, government agencies, and community members to identify and transform these properties into inclusive, supportive living environments.
Comprehensive Support Services:
Offer holistic support including counseling, job training, and assistance with navigating social services. Our 5-week Career Readiness Program equips residents with skills necessary for employment.
Community Revitalization:
Revitalize neighborhoods by transforming distressed properties into vibrant community spaces. We work with local organizations, businesses, and volunteers to ensure renovations benefit the entire community.
Desired Impact:
Short-term: Provide immediate safe housing and support to individuals experiencing homelessness.
Long-term: Create sustainable, inclusive environments at home and in the workplace, reducing homelessness and promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging across Los Angeles.

Reduction in Homelessness: One of the most immediate and visible impacts will be a significant reduction in homelessness, particularly among LGBTQ+ individuals and other vulnerable populations. By securing and renovating distressed properties, we will provide safe and affordable housing to those in need, ensuring they have a stable place to live. This stability will alleviate the immediate pressures of homelessness, allowing individuals to focus on rebuilding their lives.
Economic Growth: The influx of newly renovated properties and the stabilization of previously homeless individuals will stimulate economic growth. Residents with stable housing and employment will contribute to the local economy through spending and participation in community activities. Additionally, the revitalization of distressed properties will increase property values and attract further investments into the community.

Property Acquisition & Renovation:
Secure distressed properties for renovation
Transform these properties into safe, inclusive, supportive housing
Success Indicators:
Number of Properties Acquired: Track the number of properties secured for renovation
Renovation Progress: Monitor the completion stages of renovation projects
Housing Units Created: Measure the number of housing units made available post-renovation
Resident Safety and Satisfaction: Collect feedback from residents regarding the safety & quality of housing
Measurement Methods:
Progress Reports: Regular updates on acquisition & renovation status
Resident Surveys: Conduct surveys to assess resident satisfaction and perceived safety
Inspection Reports: Document compliance with safety& accessibility standards through regular inspections
Short-term: Immediate Housing and Support: Number of individuals housed and receiving support
Long-term: Sustainable Housing Solutions: Creation of stable, inclusive housing environments