2026
Policy Victories
In 2026, JBAY successfully advocated for these policy and budget priorities to improve the quality of life for youth in California who have experienced foster care or homelessness.
$82.9 Million to Reduce Youth Homelessness in California
The 2026–27 state budget includes approximately $82.9 million to address youth homelessness through the Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) Program, which received $900 million in total funding.
Under HHAP, California’s 44 Continuums of Care, 58 counties, and 14 large cities must dedicate at least 10% of their HHAP funding to serving youth and young adults experiencing homelessness, ages 12–24. This required “youth set-aside” will result in approximately $82.9 million being invested in youth homelessness statewide.
Since HHAP was created in 2019, California has invested approximately $472.7 million in youth homelessness through the program.