The state is awarding $3.2 million to officials in Merced County to help provide more services to the unhoused population.
County officials say the funding is a Encampment Resolution Funding grant awarded to the Merced City and County Continuum of Care.
The money is geared toward providing support to individuals in the City of Atwater who are transitioning from encampments into stable housing, according to a county news release.
The money will benefit a variety of services, including outreach and engagement, interim housing, housing navigation services and rental assistance.
The resources are being implemented in coordination with officials in Atwater.
“This investment in the City of Atwater is a crucial step toward tackling homelessness in our county,” said Merced County Supervisor Josh Pedrozo, said in the release.
Pedrozo is a board representative with the Continuum of Care. “We are committed to working closely with the City of Atwater and our local partners to ensure that services are delivered effectively,” he added.
“This funding is a significant step forward in our efforts to address homelessness,” said District 3 Supervisor Daron McDaniel, whose district includes the City of Atwater. “By working together with community partners, we can create lasting solutions and improve the quality of life for all residents in Atwater and beyond.”
The funding will support services through June 30, 2027, focusing on ensuring sustainable housing solutions, the release said.
The Merced Human Services Agency, as the Housing and Urban Development designated collaborative applicant, will provide administrative support to the County Continuum of Care as part of the effort.
For more information about the Encampment Resolution Funding, please contact the CoC Collaborative Applicant via email at collabapp@countyofmerced.com