During a recent Orange County government meeting, officials discussed the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to address homelessness and recovery efforts following Hurricane Ian. The meeting highlighted a contract with SALT Outreach to provide mobile services for individuals experiencing homelessness, including showers, laundry, case management, and mental health counseling. This initiative aims to meet immediate needs while helping individuals navigate pathways out of homelessness.

As ARPA funds are nearing full allocation, the county has developed a comprehensive plan to utilize $219 million in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) disaster recovery funds from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This plan focuses on long-term recovery efforts, with $190 million earmarked for unmet needs such as housing rehabilitation and infrastructure repairs, and nearly $30 million dedicated to disaster mitigation projects. The plan is particularly aimed at supporting low and moderate-income residents disproportionately affected by Hurricane Ian.

County officials emphasized the importance of using these funds to prioritize affordable housing initiatives, including the development of 100 new affordable housing units and supportive services for those experiencing homelessness. The meeting also acknowledged ongoing efforts to improve services for the homeless community, with a commitment to engage local nonprofits and allocate significant resources to tackle homelessness.

In addition to homelessness initiatives, the meeting covered a digital equity partnership with the Eris Foundation, aimed at providing loaner devices to underserved populations, and the launch of a Financial Empowerment Center to offer financial management services to residents. A significant infrastructure project was also approved, with the Shingle Creek Transit and Utility Community Development District donating $18 million towards a $42 million odor control project at the South Water Reclamation Facility, benefiting over 100,000 residents in South Orange County.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to addressing homelessness and enhancing community resilience through strategic funding and partnerships.