The Reality of Homelessness in Southern California
Homelessness in Southern California is reaching crisis levels. Cities like Hemet, San Jacinto, Los Angeles County, and San Bernardino County have seen dramatic increases in homelessness in recent years. In Los Angeles County alone, over 69,000 people were experiencing homelessness in 2023, according to the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA). In San Bernardino County, homelessness rose by 26% in 2023, with over 4,195 people living without stable housing. Hemet and San Jacinto are not far behind, seeing more families and individuals forced to sleep in shelters, vehicles, or on the streets.
These numbers are staggering, and they represent individuals—parents, children, veterans, and seniors—who are struggling to survive without the basic security of housing. The causes of homelessness are complex and varied, from job loss and mental health challenges to rising rent prices and lack of affordable housing. But one thing is clear: we need more resources, support, and compassion to address this growing issue.
The Gaps in Resources for Homelessness Support
Despite the efforts of local governments and organizations, there is still a significant lack of resources for people facing homelessness in these communities. Affordable housing is scarce, shelters are overcrowded, and mental health services are often difficult to access. In places like Hemet and San Jacinto, there are limited shelter options, leaving many individuals to fend for themselves.
For those trying to transition out of homelessness, navigating the system can be overwhelming. Job placement programs are underfunded, and many individuals lack the life skills and confidence necessary to secure stable employment. With so many hurdles, it’s no wonder that people find it challenging to reach self-sufficiency.
This lack of resources leaves individuals and families in a cycle of uncertainty, where they struggle to find not just temporary relief but a long-term solution.
How HEDC is Filling the Gaps
At High Expectation Development Corporation (HEDC), we’re committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness by addressing the gaps in housing and support services. We believe that self-sufficiency is achievable for everyone, and we provide the tools, resources, and guidance needed to make that happen. Here’s how we’re working to fill those gaps:
1. Homelessness Housing Support
We know that housing stability is the foundation for everything else. Through our Homelessness Housing Support programs, we provide safe and stable housing for individuals and families facing homelessness in Los Angeles County, Riverside County, Hemet, and San Jacinto. Whether it’s through emergency housing or transitional housing, we help individuals get off the streets and into a place they can call home.
Our Rapid Rehousing Program ensures that those facing immediate housing crises are met with swift action. Take Mykiah, for example—after losing her mother and her home, Mykiah was overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. Within just three months of joining our program, she secured stable housing and employment, allowing her to regain control of her life.
2. Employment Assistance
For those who want to move from temporary housing to permanent self-sufficiency, finding employment is essential. Our Employment Assistance Program connects individuals with job opportunities, providing resume-building workshops, interview coaching, and personalized job searches. But we go beyond that—at HEDC, we understand that confidence is often one of the biggest barriers to re-entering the workforce. Many people feel defeated or overwhelmed after facing homelessness, so we work closely with individuals to rebuild their self-esteem and equip them with the skills they need to succeed.
3. Self-Sufficiency Workshops
Our Self-Sufficiency Workshops help individuals develop the life skills necessary to manage their finances, find and maintain employment, and plan for the future. From financial literacy to budgeting, we provide practical tools that empower people to regain control over their lives. These workshops are designed to not only help people get by but to thrive.
Makayla, a single mother, came to HEDC with financial struggles and no clear path forward. Through our self-sufficiency programs, she gained the confidence and skills she needed to find stable employment and create a brighter future for herself and her children.
The Path Forward: Hope in the Midst of Crisis
While the statistics on homelessness in Southern California are shocking, there is hope. At HEDC, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions that address the root causes of homelessness and help individuals achieve long-term stability. Through our housing programs, employment services, and life skills training, we are bridging the gap between crisis and self-sufficiency.
We know that the journey isn’t easy, but we believe in the potential of every individual we serve. We are proud to stand with them as they rebuild their lives, regain their confidence, and move toward a future of independence.
How You Can Help
Whether you are facing homelessness or want to support those who are, you can make a difference:
- Facing homelessness? We’re here for you. Learn more about our programs and how we can help you find housing, employment, and resources for self-sufficiency.
- Want to support our mission? There are many ways to get involved. You can donate, volunteer, or spread the word to help us continue our work in creating a brighter future for those in need.
Every contribution—whether it’s financial or time—helps us fill the gaps in resources and create real change in the lives of those facing homelessness.
Join Us in Creating Change
At HEDC, we are working every day to create a future where no one has to face homelessness alone. Together, we can empower individuals to build a better life for themselves and work toward self-sufficiency. We invite you to join us on this journey.
