The Sacramento City Council has given the green light for an injection of funds exceeding $1.1 million aimed at enhancing housing stability programs in the vicinity of UC Davis's Aggie Square campus. According to a report by Sacramento City Express, this move comes as a strategic effort to support the Step Up Anti-Displacement Program and a second project, both providing critical aid to households threatened by displacement along the Stockton Boulevard corridor.
Councilmember Eric Guerra, representing the district involved, stated on Sacramento City Express, "This allocation is the next phase of the anti-displacement program and a key part of the Aggie Square settlement." He also extended thanks to all parties engaged in the dialogue, "especially the working families from the UC Davis campus who played a role in negotiating this, and to the Mayor for helping secure these essential resources." Notably, the Step Up Anti-Displacement Program, fueled by $400,000, has since February offered its helping hand to individuals and families either unsheltered or in precarious housing situations within specific zip codes.
Through Step Up on Second Street's efforts, rental and utility aid has reached 291 individuals from 101 households, with assistance lasting up to eight months. Meanwhile, the second program has channeled $790,000 towards assisting 43 households involving 137 individuals, including union members affiliated with AFSCME Local 3299. This initiative caters to individuals typically ineligible for other forms of assistance by helping with mortgage payments and urgent habitability repairs. The extension of funding is set to broaden the program's reach.
Enhancing the support network, the City of Sacramento and UC Davis have earmarked a hefty $10 million for the Stockton Boulevard area through a multi-year initiative as part of the Aggie Square Community Benefits Agreement. Already in action, an array of programs has served over 630 individuals residing in neighborhoods encircling the academic hub. Emergency rent aid, home repairs, and utility upgrades are among the resources provided by organizations such as Salvation Army, Step-up on Second, and Habitat for Humanity.
In addition to assisting renters, the city has also focused on increasing homeownership among low-income residents. An initiative by CLTRE Keeper has groomed 24 individuals from underserved neighborhoods, equipping them with the skills and resources necessary to become first-time homeowners.
