Mayor Karen Bass calls on business and philanthropic leaders to support funding for homeless housing

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass delivered a powerful State of the City address on Monday, calling on the city’s elite to step up and help combat the homelessness crisis plaguing the city. With over 46,000 unhoused individuals in Los Angeles, an 80% increase since 2015, Bass emphasized the urgent need for action.

During her speech at City Hall, Bass urged business leaders, charitable organizations, and wealthy individuals to donate private dollars to purchase or lease buildings that can be converted into homes for the homeless population. She highlighted the success of her administration in working collaboratively with various agencies to address the issue but stressed the importance of private sector involvement.

Bass also discussed her Inside Safe program, which has already moved about 2,600 people off the streets and into temporary housing. However, she acknowledged that more needs to be done to provide permanent solutions for those experiencing homelessness.

In addition to focusing on homelessness, Bass touched on preparations for the 2028 Olympic Games, public safety initiatives, and the city’s business climate. She highlighted a decrease in homicides and expressed interest in the long-awaited upgrade of the city’s convention center.

The mayor’s push for private sector support through the LA4LA initiative aims to accelerate progress in addressing homelessness and creating a safer, more prosperous city for all residents. As she prepares to release the city’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year, Bass is facing financial challenges but remains committed to prioritizing essential services and strategic hiring practices.