Let's end California's homelessness crisis

Did you know that more than 25% of the U.S. homeless population lives in California? That's roughly 114,000 people.

In Los Angeles, homelessness has skyrocketed by 75% since 2010. Three out of every four homeless people in L.A. are unsheltered —— meaning their primary location is a place not meant for accommodation, like streets or abandoned buildings. In San Francisco, about 88% of the city's homeless are unsheltered —— one of the highest rates in the country.

When you don't have a home, simple medical issues can become immensely complicated. Things like finding follow-up care and getting a prescription can be huge hurdles. That's why having an address, even a temporary one, can be life-altering for a homeless person facing health issues. A home is a cornerstone to maintaining good health.

California can and should take the lead on finding solutions to this crisis. Our Health California is committed to empowering our community with information they can use to lead happy, healthy lives. And we want our leaders to do the same by standing up for programs and issues that benefit our state.

Sign the pledge to urge California's leaders to make this issue a priority.