Homelessness in Kern County increased by 3.2% from 2025 to 2026, and shelters like the Mission of Kern are responding with a new approach: treatment first, housing last.
The White House approved a new homeless addiction recovery plan last Wednesday. It highlights prioritizing drug treatment for unhoused residents to help them gain clarity before considering broader financial considerations, such as their housing situation.
James Copley, a recovery advocate, says his past struggle with drugs could have cost him his life…