In April 2023, the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (DMH) was awarded $97.5 million from the California Department of Social Services to implement the Community Care Expansion (CCE) – Preservation program, with an additional $11.2 million in Mental Health Services Act funds secured as the required local match.

Established by Assembly Bill 172, the CCE program provides $805 million statewide to acquire, construct, and renovate licensed adult and senior care facilities serving low-income individuals, including those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The Preservation program includes two components: Capital Projects (CP) for facility upgrades, and Operating Subsidy Payments (OSP) to support ongoing operations. DMH partnered with the Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA) to administer the capital projects portion. On January 22, 2024, LACDA released a funding solicitation in partnership with DMH.

In August of 2024, Homes for Life Foundation (HFLF) was awarded CCE – CP funds for its Harvest House

Adult Residential Facility. Since opening on December 11, 1991, Harvest House has provided essential residential care for individuals living with mental illness in Service Area 7. With CCE funding, the facility underwent critical renovations including a new roof, energy-efficient windows, modern HVAC system, new flooring, and widened hallways and bathrooms to better accommodate residents with mobility challenges.

Thanks to this investment, Harvest House is not only upgraded for long-term sustainability, but continues to fulfill its mission: providing healing, hope, and a lasting home for life.

“The funding for these upgrades is God-sent,” said Carol Liess, Executive Director, HFLF. “With summer approaching, residents will now enjoy a cooler, more comfortable living environment, and the accessibility improvements mean residents with disabilities can navigate their home with greater ease and dignity.”

Maria Funk, Ph.D., LACDMH Deputy Director, Housing and Job Development, said, “These funds represent an investment in a shared future; one where residential care is not only available and accessible, but thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of our clients and rooted in our communities long into the future. DMH is thankful for our participating CCE facilities and our partnership with the Los Angeles County Development Authority, who has played an integral role in administrating the CCE – CP, ensuring that these renovations are completed quickly and with minimal disruption to residents.”

In April, Harvest House welcomed back residents, who were thrilled to see the new upgrades and partake in the decoration of their new living space.

CCE – Capital Projects: More Impact on the Way

  • 24 facilities to be upgraded across L.A. County
    • 11 contracts executed
      • Two facility renovations complete
      • Nine facilities currently in construction
    • 13 pending contract execution
  • 1,108 total beds to be preserved
  • Hundreds of residents with SMI now have ongoing access to housing and care

For more details, please visit ccegrant.com.