ERF Grant Update

Lemon Grove, CA —

The Encampment Resolution Fund (ERF) partnership between the Lemon Grove, the Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH), and Crisis House has completed the second phase of its effort to identify, serve, and house people who had been living unsheltered in Lemon Grove.

Magz LeMaster, Director of Programs and Operations, and Vani Melei, ERF Program Manager for Crisis House, presented results from the first two phases of the program. In Phase One, 31 of the 32 participants were placed into housing in approximately five weeks. In Phase Two, 40 of 46 participants have secured permanent housing. The remaining individuals continue to receive services and support from Crisis House and its partners.

Beyond consistent outreach and intensive follow-up with both unhoused and newly housed residents, Crisis House and RTFH also offered participants the option of choosing a roommate in their new home. Sharing rent, especially as rental assistance gradually decreases over an 18-month period, provides added financial stability and helps participants maintain housing after ERF support concludes.

These combined efforts reflect the City’s ongoing commitment to compassionate, coordinated solutions that strengthen both individuals and the broader Lemon Grove community.

Media Inquiries:
Portland Bates
Senior Management Analyst 
(619) 825-3827 

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