In this multi-part series, we take an inside look at one battle in the crusade to get California's more than 90,000 unsheltered residents off the streets.
Every night, some 43,000 people sleep on the streets of Los Angeles County in tents, cars and makeshift structures. So why do thousands of beds run by the biggest homeless agencies also sit empty each night?
Homeless advocates had criticized similar proposed sites, raising concerns about access to services, transportation and jobs, since the goal is to move as many people as possible off the the streets permanently.
A recent state audit found that counties have a total of $2.5 billion in unspent funds that they could be using to address mental health and homelessness.
The county's first sobering center opens Monday on Skid Row. It will primarily serve homeless, intoxicated people who might otherwise end up in jail or an emergency room.
