Effective July 1, the state’s homeless programs will fall under the oversight of the state Department of Human Services. The new law, called Act 89, was signed May 10 by Gov. Linda Lingle.

Up to now the Homeless Programs Branch has been housed under the Hawaii Public Housing Authority. But DHS is the more appropriate agency, say supporters of Act 89, because DHS’s benefit, employment, and support services division offers programs that give homeless individuals employment and job training, child care, and other assistance.

“This realignment will improve the department of human services’ coordination and delivery of homeless services to Hawaii’s homeless population, both individuals and families,” reads Senate Bill 910, which became Act 89.

The measure had broad support at the Hawaii State Legislature in the 2010 session, including from service providers like Catholic Charities Hawaii and Partners in Care.

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