Staying the Course: Grandma’s House of Hope in a Changing Housing Landscape

Across Orange County, many individuals and families are facing renewed housing uncertainty. A recent CBS Los Angeles report reveals that more than 1,000 formerly homeless residents may lose their subsidized housing as federal rental assistance funding runs out. For people who have spent years rebuilding their lives, the threat of returning to homelessness is devastating.

At Grandma’s House of Hope, we know how fragile stability can be—especially for those living with low income, mental health challenges, or a history of homelessness. This moment is more than a headline; it’s a reminder of how quickly progress can unravel without ongoing support.

A Shifting Funding Landscape

California’s transition from the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) to the Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA) does not reduce overall funding, but it does change how resources are allocated. BHSA prioritizes individuals with the most severe mental health needs, those experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and people with substance use disorders. Beginning in 2026, counties must dedicate at least 30% of these funds to housing interventions.

While this reflects a stronger statewide commitment to housing, real-world outcomes depend on county-level implementation and coordination with federal programs—where gaps can still leave people vulnerable.

How Grandma’s House of Hope Supports Long-Term Housing Stability

At Grandma’s House of Hope, housing stability doesn’t end when someone moves into permanent housing—it continues through AfterCare.

We connect participants to Orange County Health Agency where they can become MHSA-certified, a key step that allows eligible individuals to qualify for project-based housing vouchers, providing long-term housing security.  Once housed, participants are invited to continue their journey through our AfterCare Program, which offers ongoing case management, housing support, and connection to behavioral health services and substance use disorder counseling.

AfterCare helps individuals navigate lease requirements, address challenges before they become crises, and stay connected to supportive services—reducing the risk of housing loss long after initial placement.  Alongside this, we provide trauma-sensitive compassionate case management to ensure participants not only secure housing, but stay housed.

Stability is the foundation for healing, independence, and lasting success.  As funding structures change and uncertainty grows, Grandma’s House of Hope remains committed to staying the course—bridging gaps, protecting progress, and walking alongside our community every step of the way.

Together, we can ensure every person has not just a place to live, but the support to truly thrive.