In a pivotal meeting on June 5, 2025, the San Francisco City Commission approved a significant grant agreement aimed at enhancing supportive housing for vulnerable populations. The commission greenlit a $316,630 annual funding agreement with the Felton Institute to provide on-site support services for 30 new units of permanent supportive housing at the Knox, a facility dedicated to very low-income adults.

The Knox, developed by TODCO in 1994, currently houses 34 existing supportive housing units. The new funding will facilitate the rehabilitation of the building, which has faced challenges in securing financing for necessary upgrades. The project, part of the Housing for Healthy California initiative, targets individuals with high health care costs—those who have experienced multiple emergency department visits or hospital stays in the past year while facing homelessness.

The rehabilitation will create 30 new units, including six with private bathrooms and 24 that will share bathrooms in a Jack and Jill style. Accessibility improvements will also be made, with two units designated as ADA accessible. The Felton Institute, known for its expertise in behavioral health and homeless response services, will provide essential clinical and peer-based support for residents, operating at a case management ratio of 1 to 25.

This initiative underscores the city’s commitment to addressing homelessness and health disparities, ensuring that those with significant health needs receive the support necessary to thrive in stable housing. The approval marks a crucial step in enhancing the quality of life for some of San Francisco's most vulnerable residents.