New Homeless-Shelter Plan Approved In Nearby Santa Rosa

SONOMA COUNTY, CA – Santa Rosa's homeless population will have more shelter options including safe camping areas this winter.

The city council Tuesday approved a Community Homeless Assistance Program, CHAP, that allows property owners to use their existing facilities to accommodate the needs of the homeless year-round.

The properties, which must be zoned for public or private meeting facilities, will provide safe parking, safe camping, portable toilets or access to existing bathroom facilities, temporary overnight shelter and storage for personal belongings.

The eligible properties include clubs, lodges, private meeting halls, civic centers, religious facilities, civic and private auditoriums, and grange and union halls.

In accordance with the City Council's declaration of a homeless emergency in August, the CHAP takes effect immediately -- days before a predicted first heavy rainfall of the season.

The City Council in October 2015 approved a similar pilot program that was in effect between November 2015 and April 2016.

Properties interested in participating with CHAP must register with the City's Department of Housing and Community Services. Forms and guidelines are available at the City Hall Annex at 90 Santa Rosa Ave. or
online at srcity.org/HOST.

CHAP will coordinate homeless services with HOST, the City-sponsored Homeless Outreach Services Team that is operated by Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Santa Rosa.

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