California communities are under growing pressure to respond to encampments in a way that is humane, effective, and legally sound. This conversation will explore how state and local leaders can move from reactive encampment sweeps to strategic, scalable, and coordinated responses rooted in data, policy innovation, and the vision of Functional Zero Unsheltered Homelessness.
California is at a pivotal crossroads in its homelessness response. With encampments growing more visible and public pressure mounting, municipalities are being challenged to do more than manage the crisis - they must solve for it. But how do we clear encampments in a way that is legally defensible, deeply humane, and genuinely effective? This session will chart a clear path forward.
We’ll explore how California can move from piecemeal encampment “clearances” to coordinated, data-driven solutions rooted in best practices, funding alignment, and urgency. With strategic frameworks municipalities can provide a portfolio of solutions, with specialized services for each population resulting in offerings that are not only appealing but more effective. From the State’s bold new mandates to on-the-ground success stories like San Jose and DignityNOW Santa Barbara, this conversation will offer a real-world roadmap for cities looking to transform their homelessness response, and finally meet the moment.
