The Riverside County Department of Housing and Workforce Solutions (HWS) has been awarded $8 million by the California Board of State and Community Corrections.

This funding will be used to support the county’s innovative RivCo Street Recovery initiative, aimed at reducing recidivism and addressing homelessness among unsheltered individuals who have been justice‑involved and suffer from mental health or substance use disorders.

“The RivCo Street Recovery initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to tackling some of the County’s most pressing issues —homelessness, mental health, and substance use,” said Board Chair Chuck Washington, Third District Supervisor. “I am proud to stand behind this initiative, which reflects our commitment to creating lasting, positive change and breaking the cycle of homelessness and incarceration within our community.”

RivCo Street Recovery will utilize a comprehensive, field-based approach to provide essential services where they are needed most. Through the street medicine model, a multidisciplinary team of housing navigators, licensed clinicians, medical personnel, peer support, and case managers will deliver trauma-informed, whole-person care to homeless individuals. The initiative will also leverage the county’s coordinated entry system to facilitate permanent housing placements and recovery-oriented services, as well as connecting to workforce development programs run by HWS.

“This funding will enable us to reach vulnerable populations who have been unable to access the care they need,” said Riverside County Fourth District Supervisor V. Manuel Perez. “To combat issues like poverty, we must create workforce pathways while ensuring this funding directly supports those who are most vulnerable. I’ve been championing this cause through my work with the probation department and the community. This funding is a crucial step in advancing efforts to address interconnected issues effectively.”

The program is expected to significantly reduce the barriers that individuals face in accessing services, such as transportation issues and long wait times for recovery housing. By providing mobile, field-based care and ensuring rapid placement in sober living or recovery residences, RivCo Street Recovery will enhance continuity of care and improve long-term recovery outcomes for clients.

The initiative is set to launch in December 2024, with services continuing through June 2028. It is anticipated that the program will reach thousands of individuals in Riverside County who are in urgent need of mental health and substance use treatment, along with stable housing solutions.