Natural disasters often leave devastation in their wake, but they also present a critical opportunity As 2025 begins, we find ourselves already confronting catastrophic wildfires that have threatened entire communities and an unprecedented political climate. Meanwhile, the latest data reveal record-breaking rates of homelessness and the devastating loss of lives among unhoused individuals—making immediate action not just urgent but imperative.
In 2024 alone, nearly 200 people experiencing homelessness died in Santa Clara County. Meanwhile, California accounts for more than 25% of the nation’s homeless population. (source)
Despite allocating billions of dollars to address the housing crisis, California remains the nation’s most unaffordable housing market. With more than 3.2 million tenants classified as “rent-burdened,” many families live one paycheck away from homelessness. In Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass allocated a historic $1.3 billion to combat homelessness, yet nearly half of these funds remain unspent. Politicians continue to campaign on promises of affordable housing and ending homelessness, but we—the organizations on the ground—are still waiting for meaningful funding and support.
One common refrain from county officials is, “We do not have enough shelter beds to accommodate everyone.” But the truth is clear: we don’t need more shelter beds—we need safe, dignified, and affordable housing.
We need community-led solutions designed by and for people who have experienced violence, incarceration, poverty, and life on the streets. We need supportive and transitional housing for individuals returning from prison or aging out of the foster care system.
That’s where Beloved Village comes in.
Launched in 2023, Beloved Village was born out of the Young Women’s Freedom Center’s 30+ years of work to end youth incarceration and prevent systems involvement. Our mission is to build a continuum of care that provides alternative housing options for young people who might otherwise face congregate care, incarceration, or homelessness.
We know the transformative power of long-term, safe, and stable housing: it leads to reduced involvement in the juvenile justice system, greater financial and mental stability, and stronger family bonds.
Now, more than ever, we need real investment in community-based housing solutions and alternatives to incarceration. Together, we can ensure that everyone has a place to call home—a place that allows them to thrive, not just survive.
How You Can Help
Are you a funder, or do you know of a funding opportunity? Beloved Village is actively seeking partners who are ready to invest in proven, community-based services and housing alternatives. Together, we can build a future where no one is left without a home or hope.