Statewide Office on Homelessness and Housing Solutions (SOHHS)
SOHHS works closely with the Governor and his cabinet, to develop policies and programs to end homelessness. Working with community partners, non-profit organizations, and other government agencies, SOHHS designs, tests, and evaluates innovative approaches to address homelessness in Hawai‘i.
Formally established by Act 252, Session Laws of Hawaii 2022, and administratively attached to the Department of Human Services (DHS), the SOHHS is led by the Coordinator on Homelessness (CH), Jun Yang, and consists of five full-time staff who assists the CH in carrying out the duties and functions of the SOHHS. These duties and responsibilities include:
- Working with state, county, and community partners to develop solutions to prevent and end homelessness;
- Developing and testing innovative approaches such as the Kauhale Initiative and the Ohana Zone Programs;
- Identifying and addressing gaps in the homeless services system;
- Providing administrative support to the Hawaii Interagency Council on Homelessness (HICH), in which the CH also serves as the Chair; and
- Establishing and maintaining a statewide homelessness and housing clearinghouse.
Homelessness is a multifaceted and complex issue that requires a multifaceted and comprehensive solution. SOHHS aligns with the administration’s commitment to the principle that housing is healthcare by spearheading innovative solutions that address not only the immediate shelter needs but also the underlying issues contributing to homelessness. This office is committed to expanding sustainable housing solutions — such as the Kauhale Initiative and the Ohana Zones Program — that emphasize community, support and belonging that foster environments where individuals find not just shelter but also access to vital wrap around services and resources such as healthcare, job training and other social services.