Los Angeles Mayor Bass appoints deputy mayor of homelessness and community health [Video]

LOS ANGELES (CNS) — Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced the appointment of Dr. Etsemaye Agonafer as the city’s first deputy mayor of homelessness and community health.

Agonafer will focus on improving the coordination and delivery of social, health and behavioral services to homeless people and those at risk of becoming homeless. She will be tasked with building a team and leading efforts on housing and health outcomes for homeless Angelenos.

“We must continue to address this homelessness crisis with urgency and comprehensive strategies that work,” Bass said in a statement. “We know that health, both physical and behavioral, is a vital part of bringing stability to unhoused Angelenos and Dr. Agonafer’s diverse experience and deep understanding of health care and homelessness in Southern California will be a crucial step forward in addressing the homelessness crisis and supporting those with health challenges.”

Agonafer began working with Bass’ office in May 2023, serving as the community health advisor as …