The Housing First model combats homelessness by getting people into housing first and providing basic necessities, setting them up for greater success in working on their own issues. Santa Cruz County housing professionals and homeless service providers say that while there is a will and interest to implement the model locally, there are big obstacles including funding and, most notably, housing.
Housing Matters
Unhoused man found dead outside Housing Matters Coral Street campus
The man, known as Blake by those close to him, was a day-services participant at Housing Matters. The official cause of death has not been determined.
21 for ’21: Housing Matters’ Phil Kramer is looking to end family homelessness (and quickly)
Phil Kramer, executive director of Housing Matters, wants to take the compassion and love Santa Cruz County used to get through 2020 and keep it flowing to help the homeless next year. A $2.5 million grant from an organization overseen by Jeff Bezos is sure to help.

