Five Cities Homeless Coalition Update: Key Insights from Recent Discussions

At a recent council meeting, representatives from the Five Cities Homeless Coalition (5CHC) provided an in-depth update on their progress, challenges, and plans for the future. As homelessness continues to be a growing concern across California, 5CHC’s efforts aim to connect vulnerable individuals and families with housing, resources, and support.

Five Cities Homeless Coalition’s Mission and Approach

Founded in 2009, Five Cities Homeless Coalition focuses on strengthening the community by offering resources, support, and hope to those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Their work includes:

• Case management and housing assistance to help families move into stable living environments.

• Financial support to prevent homelessness and assist with rent and deposit payments.

• Warming centers and interim shelters to provide temporary housing solutions.

Recent Accomplishments and Services

1. Cabins for Change Program

• Opened in December 2022, this program offers temporary housing in individual cabins for those experiencing chronic homelessness.

• 76 participants have been served so far, with 66% successfully transitioning into stable housing.

• The program collaborates with multiple local agencies to offer wraparound services.

2. Bungalows for Change

• In July 2023, 5CHC launched an interim shelter with additional bungalow units, adding space for 30 more individuals.

• This program helps address the needs of those who have been homeless for more than a year and have disabling conditions.

3. Rapid Rehousing and Landlord Incentives

• The rapid rehousing program focuses on moving people directly from homelessness into housing by covering rent, deposits, and offering case management.

• Landlord incentive programs have been critical in encouraging property owners to rent to vulnerable tenants. Some landlords are now actively reaching out to 5CHC with new housing opportunities.

• 2022-23 results:

  • 200 households housed through rapid rehousing, including 22 from Arroyo Grande.

  • $85,000 spent on move-in assistance for Arroyo Grande residents.

Homeless Prevention and Eviction Assistance

• 2022-23:

  • 5CHC provided financial assistance to 200 households at risk of eviction, spending over $500,000 in total.

  • 33 households in Arroyo Grande received support, totaling $134,000.

• However, the coalition faces challenges with funding reductions this year. A $200,000 cut in prevention funding could impact their ability to provide eviction prevention services at the same scale.

Warming Centers and Shelter Services

• The Warming Center offers emergency shelter during extreme weather conditions, such as temperatures below 38°F or heavy rain.

• In the 2022-23 season, the center was open for 38 nights, providing a critical service for unsheltered individuals.

• New Training Program:

  • 5CHC is transforming the warming center into a training facility, teaching clients essential life skills such as budgeting, job searching, and tenant responsibilities.

Challenges and the Need for Volunteers

• Increased demand: With a waiting list of 283 people, including 60 Arroyo Grande residents, the need for services continues to grow.

• Volunteers Needed:

  • 5CHC highlighted the need for volunteers, especially for their warming center operations.

  • Volunteers must undergo live scan background checks, as families with children are served at the center.

Council Discussions and Feedback

Several council members acknowledged the important role 5CHC plays in the community. They noted that residents often recommend the coalition on social media to those in need, signaling strong community awareness of the coalition’s impact.

Council members also encouraged residents to volunteer and contribute to 5CHC’s efforts. The warming center offers a unique opportunity for community members to make a tangible difference by providing meals, donations, or on-site support.

Public Comments

A resident expressed gratitude for the coalition’s work and emphasized the visibility of 5CHC's services in the community. They noted that many struggling families turn to the coalition after hearing about it through word-of-mouth and online forums.

Questions from Council Members

• Warming Center Orientations:

  • Council members asked about upcoming orientations for warming center volunteers. 5CHC assured them that orientations would continue throughout the season to accommodate those interested in joining.

• Live Scan Process:

  • Council members inquired about the live scan process, asking if the coalition could assist volunteers with the cost. 5CHC confirmed they would work with volunteers to minimize financial barriers.

Looking Ahead

Despite funding challenges, the Five Cities Homeless Coalition is committed to expanding its services and building stronger partnerships with local agencies and landlords. As winter approaches, the coalition will increase its outreach efforts to ensure unsheltered residents have access to emergency shelter and other resources.

How You Can Help

If you’re interested in supporting the Five Cities Homeless Coalition, here are a few ways to get involved:

1. Volunteer at the warming center:

   • Assist with meal preparation, donations, or on-site activities.

   • Email info@5chc.org or call 805-295-1151 for more details.

2. Donate:

   • Monetary contributions help fund essential programs and support services. Visit 5chc.org to donate.

3. Spread the word:

   • Share information about 5CHC’s services with friends, neighbors, and online communities. Many families in need find their way to 5CHC through word-of-mouth referrals.