The city of Santa Monica has recently added a new asset to its arsenal against homelessness with the inauguration of The Laurel, a city-funded Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) development. According to a recent blog post on the city's official website, The Laurel offers 57 apartments for individuals who were formerly homeless. The residents, some of whom had been living on the streets for years, now have a place to call home which is outfitted with a myriad of supportive services tailored to their needs.
Permanent Supportive Housing stands out from other types of affordable housing in its offering of on-site, specialized supportive services and case management. Meant for those who have experienced or are at risk of homelessness, these services envelop the residents, providing not just housing, but skills for living independently. While the new residents have started to enjoy the comfort and stability of an apartment, they're also learning to adjust to new routines—an admittedly difficult transition for those accustomed to the streets.
The establishment of PSH is part of the city's larger strategy to combat the homelessness crisis sweeping the region. These are far from mere shelters or temporary housing solutions; they are designed as long-term residences where tenants hold the same rights and responsibilities as any renter in the city. The blog post enlightens readers on the benefits of PSH for the community by highlighting the potential for improved health, stability, and, eventually, the opportunity to move into other kinds of housing.
"PSH is a proven best practice for helping people experiencing homelessness move indoors and gain autonomy and housing stability," the city's blog post states. These homes not only provide shelter but also a stable foundation for residents to build upon. With an on-site supportive services team and property management working in tandem, residents are afforded a platform where they can both recover and thrive. Their weekly meetings cater to the diverse needs of residents, helping those late in paying rent or addressing behavioral changes prompted by past infractions.
The success of The Laurel serves as a testament to the efficacy of PSH in reducing homelessness in Santa Monica. Evidenced by the transformation of 57 lives from homelessness to having a secure and supportive living environment, the city continues to plan further developments to expand its PSH offerings. The blog post notes that additional permanent apartments committed to affordable housing are currently in the pipeline, showing Santa Monica's resolve to provide long-lasting solutions to its most vulnerable citizens.
