CalOptima Health in Orange County, California, has announced grants totaling $29.9 million to 29 organizations, including its first-ever funds for permanent supportive housing.

Eight community partners will receive a total of $21 million for the acquisition, construction, and upgrades of more than 400 housing units, including the Salvation Army Orange County, which was awarded the largest grant at $4.1 million. The grants are tied to participation in the Department of Health Care Services’ Housing and Homelessness Incentive Program, which allows the agency to fund permanent supportive housing. In addition to funding major projects, the grants will help expand community-based services and strengthen Orange County’s ability to respond to the continuing homeless crisis.

“These grants will deliver life-changing resources for many individuals and families in Orange County who have struggled to navigate the complex system of homeless services and housing,” said CalOptima Health CEO Michael Hunn. “Simply put, housing is health. CalOptima Health is honored that $21 million of this funding will go toward permanent supportive housing. By providing stability, permanent housing becomes the very foundation for accessing medical and behavioral health services.”

For a complete list of recipients, see the CalOptima website.

(Photo credit: Getty Images/Phil Augustavo)