"We've seen a huge increase, largely due to the rising cost of living and the severe lack of affordable housing, Banta said. Solano County is also above the state average for first-time homelessness. While Mayor John Carli called for increased collaboration on homelessness at the Sept. 9 Vacaville City Council meeting, Banta said that partnerships already exist between her organization, the county, and the faith-based community. The truth is that we are working together, she said, but we need more than that."
"We need affordable housing. Cash assistance programs even as low as $500 per month can help prevent eviction, Banta noted. Opportunity House administers such funds, but the demand is overwhelming. The need is outgrowing what we are doing, she said, but that doesn't mean that we aren't making strides. Among recent victories, she pointed to the establishment of the Community Action Partnership (CAP) Solano Joint Powers Authority (JPA), a more unified countywide approach to homelessness services."
Vacaville faces a sharp rise in homelessness driven by increasing living costs and an acute shortage of affordable housing. Opportunity House provides shelter to about 100 residents annually and runs street outreach, aftercare and youth programs, but demand has surged with many first-time homeless callers. Solano County records exceed the state average for new homelessness. Local nonprofits, county agencies and faith-based groups coordinate services, yet resources remain insufficient. Small monthly cash assistance can prevent evictions, but available funds are overwhelmed. Recent efforts include a county Joint Powers Authority, a $4 million rental assistance fund and a navigation center.
Read at www.thereporter.com
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