11-19-2002 CC RPT 35 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Homeless Advisory Committee Update · Page 2 Some of the themes and recommendations in the "action plan" would include: Identifying funding to hire at least two outreach workers that would be deployed to parks and other public places throughout the City to guide people into existing programs. These outreach workers would work out of the existing two shelters in the city, where folks would be assessed and a case management plan would be developed. Clients who are found to have extreme mental health issues or dependency needs would be referred to treatment centers throughout Riverside County. The outreach workers would be trained professionals that are able to identify and deal with a number of mental health and dependency issues. Increase the number of Emergency Beds (60-90 day shelters) with an extensive case management component. Case managers are licensed professionals who would work with clients to address dependency issues, identify job training opportunities, and assist with job placement. Develop a Transitional Housing Program (housing up to a year) with continued case management. The City of Corona has developed a Transitional Rental Program that provides rental assistance to clients that transition out of their Emergency Shelter (the Circle of Hope). The clients are able to rent available units throughout the city of Corona. Develop long-term Affordable Housing Opportunities. According to the federal government, housing is affordable if it costs no more than 30 percent of a family's income. But many extremely Iow-income people pay too much for housing and fall into homelessness, often repeatedly. The cost of affordable housing could be addressed by partnering with local property owners to create affordable units or working with the County to increase the number of Section 8 vouchers. At it's next meeting the Homeless Advisory Committee will vote to form a subcommittee to work on formulating the action plan. The subcommittee will focus on the themes/recommendations mentioned above. Also, the subcommittee will look at developing a new system or enhancing an existing one to increase awareness of services available to the homeless. A draft of the action plan will be available to the Council within the next three months. FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact at this time. ALTERNATIVES: Not to accept the update to Council that is included above. RECOMMENDATIONS: That the City Council: 1. Receive, approve, and file this update that is included above. 2. Support the Homeless Advisory Committee's decision to form a subcommittee to create an Action Plan. Prepared !;~': Tr~nda Dru mwri~]h-T' Housing and Community Development Manager Approved by: / City Manager 35-2