Ige Signs Supplemental Homeless Proclamation

After signing an emergency proclamation on Oct. 16 allowing for the state to quickly funnel money toward the facilitation of immediate homeless help, Governor David Ige signed a supplemental proclamation Monday that paves the way for coordinated outreach efforts.

On Oct. 16, Governor Ige noted the current work being done and the state-wide issue of homelessness.

“The lesson learned is that great things can be accomplished when we all work together. Despite the recent success of enforcement efforts in the Kaka’ako Makai area, homelessness remains a serious issue in every county throughout the state,” Governor Ige said. “We plan to replicate the Kaka’ako model as we work to address homelessness in communities across the state.”

As part of the supplemental proclamation signed Monday, no additional funding will be added to the $1.3 million fund reserved. The money initially released was to be distributed to existing homelessness programs that promote permanent housing, with help to not only Oahu homeless, but also to neighbor islands as well.

Three programs including Housing First, Housing Placement Program, and State Homeless Emergency Grant.

The Housing First program provides ongoing housing assistance, intensive case management, and wraparound supportive services for chronically homeless individuals and families. A total of $312,500 for Oahu and $250,000 for neighbor islands would be funded to the program.

Housing Placement Program provides first month’s rent of security deposit, along with temporary case management for homeless families with minor children. On Oahu, $292,900 in funding would go to the program, while the neighbor island fund would receive $207,100.

The State Homeless Emergency Grant program provides monetary assistance for housing, food, medical, and other types of expenses arising from emergency needs, including housing rental deposit and rent, utility costs/deposit, emergency medical care and expenses, transportation, and job hunting expenses. Oahu and neighbor island funds would each receive $150,000.