This grant will pay for stipends and training for peer support staff, lobby furniture, storage lockers for client documents, copying and printing, and administrative costs.
The 2023 Point-in-Time Count found that 787 individuals were living without shelter in the city of Santa Barbara. Over 100 unsheltered individuals were concentrated in four downtown blocks near the library.
SB ACT will create a permanent, downtown navigation center where people who are homeless can receive daytime services from multiple agencies in a safe, welcoming space. The conveniently located center will be open five days a week for four to six hours a day.
Services will include help with basic needs, housing navigation, case management, behavioral health support, and medical care. Two full-time, on-site, center staff will manage the space.
Formerly homeless people who have received training as peer counselors will greet clients, provide peer support, and direct clients to services.
