The City of San Francisco held a government meeting on July 4, 2025, focusing on new business related to homelessness prevention and problem-solving strategies. The discussion was led by Julieta Barcalone from the Human Services Agency (HSA), who has been with the department for four years.

Barcalone emphasized the importance of homelessness prevention and housing problem-solving as critical components of an effective homelessness response system. She noted that homelessness arises from various factors, necessitating diverse interventions to address the issue comprehensively. These interventions aim to reduce the inflow of individuals into the already strained homelessness system and decrease the demand for shelters and other resources.

During her presentation, Barcalone connected these interventions to the HSH's strategic plan, "Home by the Bay." She highlighted that housing problem-solving aligns with the plan's goal of increasing the number of individuals exiting homelessness, while targeted prevention efforts are linked to the goal of preventing homelessness altogether.

Barcalone introduced the San Francisco Emergency Rental Assistance Program (SF ERAP) as the operational name for the HSH's primary prevention efforts. This program is designed to provide essential support to those at risk of homelessness, reinforcing the city's commitment to addressing this pressing issue.

The meeting underscored the city's ongoing efforts to tackle homelessness through a multifaceted approach, integrating prevention strategies with existing services such as shelter, rapid rehousing, and outreach programs. The discussions highlighted the need for continued collaboration and innovation in addressing homelessness in San Francisco.