Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is riding a wave of positive momentum after acknowledging the successful efforts of Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove in securing funding earmarked for enhancements to Skid Row's The Prentice, a supportive housing facility for those recovering from homelessness. In partnership with the City of Los Angeles Housing Department, these improvements are anticipated to foster a safer, more healthful living space, expressing gratitude, Mayor Bass conveyed, "The only way we can be successful in solving homelessness is by working with all levels of government and implementing a comprehensive approach that keeps people housed in a safe and healthy environment," according to the Mayor's Office.
With a focus on not solely expanding but improving the quality of affordable housing, Kamlager-Dove rallied for the cause, ensuring a vital push toward providing lasting housing stability for society's most susceptible members. Reaching back to their district, bringing federal housing resources is counted among the Congresswoman's proudest achievements. "Bringing federal housing resources, including this funding, back to the 37th District has been one of my greatest honors in Congress—I will continue working with the City to secure additional federal resources and ensure that all Angelenos have a safe place to call home," Kamlager-Dove was quoted saying in a Mayor's Office release.
Funding will bolster a series of capital improvements to The Prentice, constructed back in 1914, which provides 44 single-room occupancy units for individuals and 2 for staff. Notable renovations include light and plumbing fixture replacements, roof repairs, door renewals, ADA accessibility upgrades, fresh paint, security improvements, and major refurbishments to community areas such as the kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry facilities. This initiative is a testament to the growing momentum in tackling Los Angeles' persistent homelessness issue.
Providing a backdrop to these housing initiatives, a recent announcement from California Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled a substantial $164.3 million funding for Los Angeles, magnifying the authorities' resolve to reduce homelessness. Ever since Mayor Bass declared a state of emergency on her first day in office, there's been a discernible shift in strategy to combat homelessness, resulting in a notable decline in the city's homeless population for the first time in half a decade. "Homelessness in the City of Los Angeles is down for the first time in six years," attesting to the results of the 2024 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count, which was elaborated upon in a Mayor's Office briefing.
