Orange County Strengthens Community Health Through Mental Health and Homelessness Programs

Orange County Strengthens Community Health Through Mental Health and Homelessness Programs

Orange County is investing in the health and stability of its residents by expanding programs that address two deeply interconnected challenges: mental health and homelessness. At the center of this effort is the County's Mental Health and Homelessness Division, which funds and coordinates services that touch thousands of lives each year.

"The division doesn't provide direct services," explained Lisa Klier-Graham, manager of the office. "Instead, we coordinate, fund and oversee providers across the community to ensure residents have access to the mental health and homeless resources they need to thrive."

Programs That Make a Difference

The division oversees crisis response systems such as the Central Receiving Center, supports families through Wraparound Orange, and coordinates outreach that helps unhoused residents with housing and support services. In 2025 alone, Orange County provided assistance - either directly or through partner agencies - to more than 14,000 individuals.

The connection between homelessness and mental health is urgent. According to the 2025 Point in Time Count, 12 percent of unhoused individuals reported having a mental illness, while the Orange County Corrections Department found that nearly 49 percent of inmates experiencing homelessness also had a diagnosed mental illness.

Pathways to Long-Term Stability Save Taxpayer Dollars

To address immediate needs, the County funds a wide range of housing supports: emergency bridge housing, transitional housing, prevention and diversion programs, rapid rehousing for families, and housing vouchers for individuals with disabilities. These services provide temporary relief and also build pathways to long-term stability, reducing strain on hospitals, jails and emergency systems.

The cost of inaction is significant. In Central Florida, the annual cost of supporting an individual living on the streets - including emergency healthcare, law enforcement, and social services - averages $31,065. By contrast, providing stable housing and supportive services costs just $10,051 per person per year - a 68% savings.

Experts estimate this approach could save taxpayers more than $350 million over the next decade in Central Florida alone. National studies echo these findings, showing that failing to address homelessness can cost up to $21,000 more per person annually compared to offering stable housing solutions.

"The long-term outcomes are what matter most," said Klier-Graham. "Stable housing leads to better health, employment, and quality of life. And it saves taxpayer dollars by lowering future costs tied to incarceration, emergency room visits and crisis interventions."

Collaboration Across Systems

Because homelessness intersects with health and mental health care, justice, employment and other systems, coordination is essential. The division advocates for a holistic approach that creates a safety net addressing both immediate and long-term needs.

"Addressing mental health and homelessness is a complex, multifaceted challenge that requires dedicated, compassionate, and proactive strategies," asserted Klier-Graham. "We cannot do it alone. Real progress takes collaboration between residents, legislators, businesses, healthcare providers, correctional systems and many others."

By investing in these programs, Orange County is not only improving individual lives but also benefiting the entire community by reducing long-term costs and promoting stability.