San Francisco County officials have approved a significant amendment to the grant agreement with Episcopal Community Services (ECS) to enhance permanent supportive housing at the Henry Hotel. This resolution, passed during a recent government meeting, extends the agreement through June 2025 and increases funding by $14.6 million, bringing the total operational budget to approximately $3.6 million annually.

The Henry Hotel, which provides 121 units of supportive housing for adults exiting homelessness, has seen a notable improvement in occupancy rates, rising from 87% to 92.7% over the past year. This increase reflects the efforts of ECS, which offers essential services such as housing stability support, wellness checks, and case management. In the last fiscal year, the site served 138 tenants, including 27 new residents.

Despite these advancements, challenges remain. The hotel previously struggled with a lower occupancy rate of 76% in fiscal year 2021-2022, falling short of the 97% target outlined in the agreement. Factors contributing to vacancies include the location on Sixth Street, which some potential residents find less desirable. However, recent monitoring reports indicate that previous issues, such as insect infestations, have been resolved, allowing for a more stable living environment.

The county's commitment to supportive housing is evident, with over 13,000 units available across the community. The ongoing collaboration with ECS aims to further improve occupancy and service delivery, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the support they need. As the program continues to evolve, officials remain focused on addressing the remaining challenges and enhancing the quality of life for residents.