KCAO Receives HOME Project Grant to Expand Housing Support in Kings County

Governor Gavin Newsom and the California Department of Housing and Community Development recently announced nearly $118.9 million in federal funding to expand affordable housing and supportive services across rural California. As part of this announcement, KCAO was awarded $6.83 million through the HOME Investments Partnerships American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP), which we will be calling the HOME Project.

This investment will directly support individuals and families in Kings County who are unhoused or at risk of losing housing. Over the life of the program, KCAO expects to serve 200–250 households by providing case management, housing navigation, rapid rehousing, and financial assistance. Depending on household needs, this support may include rent payments, security deposits, first and last month’s rent, moving costs, bus passes, and essential furnishings. Assistance can range from one-time support to up to 12 months of rent, with the ultimate goal of helping families achieve permanent housing stability.

“Our nation’s housing crisis doesn’t end at city limits, and this federal funding ensures rural communities like Kings County have the resources to meet critical housing needs,” said Governor Newsom in the statewide announcement.

For Kings County, this grant means a significant step forward in reducing homelessness, preventing evictions, and building stronger pathways to stability for local families. “The Housing Plus Support grant is one of the largest grants we have ever received and the benefits of this grant on the community will be long lasting,” said KCAO Executive Director Jeff Garner. “This program is a big piece in our efforts to help address homelessness and housing affordability.”

The HOME Project will run from July 1, 2025 through July 31, 2030. Community members can learn more or apply for services by visiting www.kcao.org, or by contacting Alejandra Espinoza by phone at (559) 582-4386 ext. 7525 or by email Alejandra.Espinoza@kcao.org.

KCAO will also offer outreach across Kings County, ensuring that services are accessible throughout our community.

With this award, KCAO continues its mission of fighting poverty and building stronger, more resilient families in Kings County by ensuring that everyone has access to safe, stable housing.