In a powerful commitment to ending youth homelessness, Governor Gavin Newsom and the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) have announced an additional $56 million in awards to support counties across California. This investment will fund housing and supportive services for young adults, particularly those aging out of the foster care and probation systems. With nearly 10,000 young adults in California having exited foster care at age 18 or older, and roughly 3,000 more exiting each year, the need for targeted support is urgent. Youth leaving the child welfare system face disproportionate rates of housing insecurity—many without stable housing, career development, or mental health support. These grants, made through the Transitional Age Youth (TAY) programs, aim to provide a bridge to independence, stability, and long-term success. The TAY initiative encompasses three critical programs:
These investments build on a proven strategy. Since 2020, TAY programs have supported over 14,000 young adults ages 18 to 24, contributing to a drop in youth homelessness statewide—from 11,403 in 2020 to 8,569 in 2024. Notably, the Point-in-Time count highlights significant progress, reinforcing the value of sustained, focused funding. At United And Guided, we believe that effective care for youth experiencing housing insecurity begins with whole-person support. Our own Enhanced Care Management and Day Habilitation programs mirror the TAY model by addressing both immediate needs and long-term resilience. Wraparound services—including mental health support, job readiness, and family reunification—are critical for breaking cycles of trauma and homelessness. This funding empowers counties to not only house young adults, but to build a future with them—one in which their lived experience is acknowledged, their resilience supported, and their opportunities expanded.
Learn more about California’s TAY programs and how your county is participating by visiting the HCD website.
Black Fathers Inc., an initiative by United And Guided, stands as a testament to our mission of strengthening families and addressing systemic disparities. In partnership with the California Department of Public Health’s Perinatal Equity Initiative, we are dedicated to fostering birth equity and advancing perinatal outcomes through a holistic, culturally responsive approach. Our program includes Co-Ed Doula Services, Self-Care Sundays, and comprehensive Fatherhood Support – core components designed to ensure Black fathers are recognized, valued, and empowered in their vital roles.
Our Co-Ed Doula Services uniquely engage fathers, offering them structured support and education to actively participate in the birthing process, thereby fostering strong family bonds and healthier birth outcomes. Self-Care Sundays provide a welcoming, safe space for fathers to nurture their own well-being and build community resilience. Through these gatherings, fathers find resources, peer support, and tools to thrive as engaged co-parents and community leaders.
By addressing the historical and systemic barriers that impact Black fathers, Black Fathers Inc. promotes not only family wellness but also broader community health equity. We understand that when fathers are supported, families and communities flourish.
For more information and to learn how Black Fathers Inc. is reshaping the narrative around fatherhood and birth equity, visit our blog at www.unitedandguided.org/blog and explore our dedicated Black Fathers Inc. webpage. Join us in championing birth equity, fostering strong family foundations, and uplifting the role of Black fathers in creating healthy, thriving communities.