DignityMoves, in partnership with Good Samaritan Shelters and the County of Santa Barbara, has created an interim housing community in downtown Santa Barbara near the intersection of Santa Barbara and East Carrillo Streets. Each of the 35 portable, single-room homes include a bed, chair, desk, storage, and wifi. Showers, restrooms, laundry, and a dining room are located in a common area. It is anticipated that residents will stay for four to six months, so each home will serve two to three individuals per year. The Women’s Fund grant paid for construction of on-site case management offices, where residents receive critical support services to help transition to permanent housing. Social workers provide referrals to medical and mental health services, job placement assistance, addiction treatment, and educational programs such as financial literacy and job training. According to DignityMoves Founder and CEO, Elizabeth Funk, “The Women’s Fund grant will be life-changing for people who finally can sleep at night without fear of violence or being robbed and not worry about where to find their next meal. They will be able to begin ‘thinking forward’ about rebuilding their lives.” In addition to providing security and services for individuals experiencing homelessness, research indicates this program can positively impact the broader community. For every dollar spent on housing the homeless, six dollars is saved on emergency medical care, law enforcement, and social services. - Contributed by Denise Hinkle |