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Who we are

About Us

StayHousedOC.org is an online resource website created by the OC Eviction Diversion Collaborative, which is facilitated by Orange County United Way.

OC Eviction Diversion Collaborative

Established in December 2021 by Brenyale Toomer-Byas, previous Executive Director of United for Financial Security for Orange County United Way, the OC Eviction Diversion Collaborative strategically directed a dedicated team of consultants to identify key insights to shape and guide planning through a review of national reports and other documented work, conduct informational interviews and focus groups, and gather additional data sources, including county court records, to help shed light on the state of evictions as the pandemic was waning.

This work culminated in the creation and distribution of the report: Orange County Evictions, Spring 2023: A landscape analysis of rent-based evictions and housing instability in our community. This report by Orange County United Way and funded through St. Joseph’s Community Partnership Fund proved valuable in kickstarting significant changes in local policies and approaches.

The work of the Collaborative has evolved from research and discussion to practical solutions as the subject of eviction diversion has now been brought to the forefront of homeless prevention efforts locally through convening multiple agencies, organizations, legislative offices, and cities with an intent to innovate and reform the current eviction system in Orange County.

The StayHousedOC.org website is a project of the OC Eviction Diversion Collaborative to increase access, information, and connected support around evictions in our county.