Unhoused – Homelessness Resources
What is Homelessness?
Homelessness is the condition of lacking stable, safe, and adequate housing. It can include:
- Unsheltered: Living on the streets, in parks, cars, or abandoned buildings.
- Sheltered: Residing in emergency shelters or transitional housing.
- Couch Surfing: Temporarily staying with friends or family without permanent housing.
- Hidden Homelessness: Those living in overcrowded or substandard housing.
Who Experiences Homelessness?
- Individuals: Adults without dependents are a significant portion.
- Families: Often include single mothers and young children.
- Youth: Particularly those fleeing unsafe homes or foster care.
- Veterans: Affected by service-related injuries or mental health issues.
- Elderly: Fixed incomes may not cover rising costs of living.
- LGBTQ+ Individuals: Disproportionately affected due to family rejection or discrimination.
Causes of Homelessness
Homelessness often results from a combination of factors, including:
- Economic Factors:
- Poverty
- Unemployment or underemployment
- Rising housing costs
- Personal Factors:
- Mental health challenges
- Substance use disorders
- Domestic violence
- Family breakdown
- Structural Factors:
- Lack of affordable housing
- Insufficient social safety nets
- Systemic inequities (e.g., racial disparities, discrimination)
- Crisis Events:
- Natural disasters
- Health emergencies
- Job loss or eviction
If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness in Soledad, California, several resources are available to provide assistance:
Local Resources in Soledad:
- Soledad Housing Authority: Offers low-income affordable housing and public housing options. Contact them at 121 Alder Street, Soledad, CA 93960, or call (831) 678-3686.
- Soledad Family Resource Center: Provides services such as food pantry access, clothing, and houses the Homeless Program. Located at 441 Main Street, Soledad, CA 93960.
County-Wide Resources:
- Coalition of Homeless Services Providers: Serves as Monterey County’s Continuum of Care lead, offering various programs for individuals experiencing homelessness. Contact them at (831) 883-3080 or visit their website for more information.
- Community Homeless Solutions: Provides emergency shelters, transitional housing, and supportive services across Monterey County. Visit their website to learn more about their programs and eligibility criteria.
- Dorothy’s Place: Offers hospitality, safety, and guidance toward permanent housing for marginalized individuals in Monterey County. Services include meals, shelter, and supportive programs.
- Interim, Inc.: Provides services and affordable housing supporting community members with mental illness, including homeless outreach and support. Visit their website for more information.
Additional Resources:
- Street Outreach Programs for Youth: Community Human Services operates outreach programs serving cities including Soledad, offering crisis intervention, basic supplies, and connections to housing and other services for homeless youth up to age 24.
- 211 Monterey County: A free, confidential service available 24/7 that connects residents to information about community services, including housing assistance. Dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211.
For immediate assistance, consider contacting the Soledad Family Resource Center or dialing 2-1-1 to connect with local services. Remember, reaching out is vital to securing the support and resources needed during challenging times.
