"The state of homelessness in Vallejo in 2025 got off to a tragic start when James Oakley, 58, was crushed to death as he lay on a mattress during a city-run cleanup on Christmas Eve 2024, just a week before the new year began. Oakley's death, increasing numbers of homeless citizens and a dearth of resources for them make for a pessimistic outlook going forward, though a long-delayed shelter opened in June and at least one advocate has expressed optimism for the future."
"Homelessness increased 50 percent in Vallejo between 2022 and 2024, according to Solano County's 2024 Point in Time homeless count, with 682 people experiencing homelessness in Vallejo in 2024. Homelessness grew 6 percent in the Bay Area in 2024 and 18 percent in the country."
"The long-delayed and much-anticipated 125-bed Navigation Center homeless shelter opened in June after many delays. "It takes a village ... It took 10 years, three mayors, and six different city councils," said Vallejo City Councilmember J.R. Matulac, addressing the standing-room-only crowd gathered in the facility's spacious outdoor garden at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The facility at 1937 Broadway has wraparound services including case management, employment assistance and health care for those living there."
Homelessness in Vallejo escalated sharply, culminating in the death of James Oakley, 58, who was crushed during a city-run cleanup on Christmas Eve 2024. The city's homeless population rose 50 percent between 2022 and 2024 to 682 people, while regional and national counts also increased. Encampments, vehicles and tents contribute to litter, human waste, drug activity, shootings and fires, affecting all residents. A long-delayed 125-bed Navigation Center opened in June at 1937 Broadway, offering wraparound services including case management, employment assistance and health care and reaching near capacity by September. The Broadway Project's future remains uncertain.
Read at The Mercury News
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