Kaiser Plans Millions to Fight Homelessness

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) – Hospital giant Kaiser Permanente has pledged $25 million to a new California fund aimed at getting people off the streets. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order last week creating what he proposes to be a $750 million fund that providers could use to pay rents or subsidize affordable housing. Kaiser calls homelessness a public health issue. CEO Greg Adams says chronic homelessness has been shown to cut 27 years from the average lifespan. Kaiser’s pledge came a day after Newsom wrapped up a statewide tour promoting his homelessness plan.