Correspondence - #22 - Applicant In Support Comments

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J U R N C Y Orange County LWIed Way January 19, 2024 Dear Commissioners or Councilmembers, My name is Susan B. Parks, President & Chief Executive Officer of Orange County United Way - Homelessness in Orange County has grown to crisis proportions. Thousands of our neighbors have lost hope on the streets. Veterans, who fought for our freedom, people with disabilities, women and families and a growing number of seniors are homeless in our community. It's why Orange County United Way and its partners in the business, philanthropic, faith -based, nonprofit and government sectors launched United to End Homelessness five years ago. I am proud to share that as of this January, we have now permanently housed 1,000 Orange County individuals in a humane and dignified away by providing long- term housing. However, it is riot enough. We know thousands of other people are at risk of losing their homes for many reasons. One big reason is the severe housing shortage that has dramatically increased the cost of rental and market rate housing in Santa Ana and across the region. it has forced many individuals and families to double and triple up to share the costs, or worse yet, left scores of others with no alternative but to move onto the streets or into our parks. We know the fastest and best way to end homelessness, or the threat of becoming homeless, is having a place to call home. Related Bristol and mixed -use urban developments can be a big part of the housing solution going forward- As proposed, Related Bristol will create 3,750 rental apartments in South Santa Ana, a major infusion of sorely -needed housing for middle income workers near large employers in central Orange County. This will significantly increase the overall supply and provide new housing opportunities for those of all incomes both onsite at Related Bristol and throughout the neighboring community as individuals relocate to the new project. Moreover, the developers of Related Bristol have publicly stated a strong willingness and commitment to work collaboratively with the City of Santa Ana, police and the community to contribute meaningfully to finding solutions for the ongoing homeless crisis. in our quest to end homelessness, the Orange County United Way is proud to support Related Bristol and I ask that you join us - Thank you, Susan B. Parks President & Chief Executive Officer 18012 Mitchell South 949.660,7600 kvine. CA 92614 unitedWayoc,&9 FOR YOU. F ROUR COMMMUNITY. F01ORFUTURE.