VENTURA, Calif. – The Ventura County Continuum of Care has reported a 15.6% decrease in homelessness as part of the 2025 Ventura County Homeless Count. Conducted on January 22, 2025, the count identified 1,990 individuals experiencing homelessness, a reduction of 368 people compared to 2024. Since 2023, the overall decrease stands at 18.5%.
This progress reflects successful investments in permanent supportive housing, homelessness prevention programs, and enhanced supportive services across the county to promote housing retention. The count, which adheres to federal definitions of homelessness, includes individuals living unsheltered, in emergency shelters, or in transitional housing.
Approximately 400 volunteers assisted with the unsheltered surveys during the official Point In Time Count. The effort is a requirement by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for communities to be eligible for federal grants addressing homelessness. The results play a vital role in identifying trends and gaps, guiding community leaders in allocating funding to areas of highest need.
Key Takeaways:
- Permanent Housing Solutions: Over 100 permanent housing units opening in 2024 as well as an expansion of rapid rehousing programs offering rental assistance have resulted in reductions in the number of persons experiencing homelessness.
- Prevention Efforts: Dedicated funds for homelessness prevention and landlord engagement are helping to address first time homelessness.
- Encampment Interventions: State grant investments and continued efforts by the County of Ventura and cities have resolved encampments by prioritizing housing placements, delivering a measurable community impact.
The Ventura County Continuum of Care annually receives federal and state funding to support emergency shelter, rapid rehousing, homelessness prevention, street outreach, and permanent supportive housing initiatives.
The executive summary can be viewed on the Ventura County Continuum of Care website. The full report, including additional data from the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and other sources, will be published in May 2025.
For more information, visit the Ventura County Continuum of Care (VC CoC) website at www.venturacoc.org or contact Jennifer Harkey, VC CoC Program Director, at 805-658-4342 or email jennifer.harkey@ventura.org.
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