This week, Century Villages at Cabrillo in Long Beach hosted the unveiling of a pivotal report linking public investment in housing to reduced homelessness. Leaders from the Los Angeles County Affordable Housing Solutions Agency (LACAHSA), the Homelessness Policy Research Institute, and United Way of Greater Los Angeles gathered at our supportive housing community to explore solutions to LA County’s housing crisis.

Century Villages provided an inspiring backdrop for the event. With more than 1,000 affordable homes and comprehensive on-site services, the campus exemplifies the transformative impact of combining housing with critical support systems. During the event, attendees toured the community, met residents, and learned how Century Villages creates a safe and supportive environment for individuals and families rebuilding their lives.

One resident, Jamies Shuford, shared their powerful story of resilience and hope: “Century Villages provides a safe place to call home and fosters connection between neighbors. Here, together we combat the isolation of homelessness and return dignity to people who have lived on the edge for far too long,” said Shuford. “Having reached a level of stability in my life, it’s my hope to be able to pull others out of that cycle.”

Speakers highlighted findings from the new report, which showed that regions with greater public investment in housing tend to have lower rates of homelessness. LACAHSA leaders, including Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson, discussed how Measure A funding will help accelerate affordable housing production and preservation across LA County.

United Way of Greater Los Angeles emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships and community-driven initiatives like Measure A to address homelessness and housing insecurity. Their ongoing efforts to raise awareness and mobilize resources remain vital to the success of these initiatives.

The event received significant media coverage, including reports by NBC4 and ABC7, further amplifying the conversation around housing solutions.

As the host of this impactful gathering, Century Housing is proud to have provided a platform for advancing meaningful discussions and strategies to address homelessness. We are deeply committed to creating communities like Century Villages, where housing meets hope and people have the opportunity to thrive.