City of Dana Point September 16, 2022 The Honorable Erick L. Larsh Presiding Judge of the Superior Court of California*

South Orange County SPA cities lack low threshold emergency shelters resulting in more homeless encampments and individuals living on the streets. Response: The City of Dana Point AGREES with the response that the South Orange County SPA lacks low threshold emergency shelters and also acknowledges that homeless numbers in south Orange County, per the Point-In-Time (PIT) count, have been decreasing, likely as a direct result of successful outreach and diversion activities.

The County of Orange and cities within Orange County have been inconsistent in collaboration for support of shelters and services which has resulted in missed opportunities to end homelessness. Response: The City of Dana Point PARTIALLY AGREES with the finding. South SPA cities had been consistently meeting with the County on potential shelter locations prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. The City continues to successfully provide fulltime outreach and diversion services.

There are an insufficient number of rental units available to those exiting Emergency Shelters, resulting in the majority returning to homelessness when leaving the shelters. Response: The City of Dana Point PARTIALLY AGREES with the finding. The City is not aware of data that supports this conclusion, but does believe there is a lack of affordable housing units in south Orange County, not just applicable to homeless individuals and families. The City also believes a greater allocation of qualified Mental Health resources are needed to facilitate successful shelter exits from homelessness into housing. Harboring the Good Life 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629 • (949) 248-3500 • FAX (949) 248-9920 • www.danapoint.org