San Diego Unified Approves Safe Parking Program for Families Experiencing Homelessness
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The San Diego unified School District (SDUSD) Board of Trustees has approved a plan to license a former school site for use as a safe parking program for families experiencing homelessness. The program, which aims to provide a secure environment for at least 40 families with children, is a collaborative effort between the SDUSD, the San Diego Housing Commission, Jewish Family service (JFS), and the San Diego Regional Task Force on Homelessness. A contract with JFS to operate the program is scheduled for a vote on November 7th.
Program Details and Funding
The initiative will transform a currently unused school site into a designated safe parking area. According to a statement from the San Diego Housing Commission, the program will “provide a safe place to park and sleep for a minimum of 40 families with children experiencing homelessness” in San Diego. Funding for the program will come from the City of San Diego and the San Diego Regional Task Force on Homelessness.
Services Offered to Families
Beyond a secure place to sleep, the program will offer thorough support services. If the contract with Jewish family Service is approved, families will have access to assistance in finding both temporary and permanent housing solutions. These services will include:
* Case management
* Assistance locating affordable housing
* A classroom trailer equipped for homework completion and sessions
* Basic cooking appliances
The program will also work closely with the SDUSD’s homeless liaison to ensure students receive the support they need to stay in school and succeed academically.
Support from SDUSD Board Members
SDUSD board Vice President Richard Barrera emphasized the program’s role as a stepping stone to stability, stating, “Safe parking programs are a bridge between crisis and recovery, between fear and stability, and between surviving and thriving.”
Board Trustee Shana Hazan highlighted the importance of protecting children and keeping them connected to their education. “No child should ever have to go to sleep afraid for their safety or wellbeing,” she said. “Safe Parking programs give families the security and support they need to move out of their cars and into stable housing. as a district, we can’t solve homelessness alone – but we can be part of the solution by partnering with local agencies and supporting programs that help families stay close to their schools and keep students on track to succeed in school.”
Addressing Homelessness in San diego
This program is part of a broader effort to address the growing issue of homelessness in San Diego County. According to the 2023 Point-in-Time Count, there were 8,427 people experiencing homelessness in San Diego County, a 22% increase as 2022. Families with children represent a significant portion of this population, making targeted programs like this one crucial.
Key Takeaways:
* The SDUSD has approved the use of a former school site for a safe parking program for families experiencing homelessness.
* the program will accommodate at least 40 families with children.
* Services will include safe parking, case management, housing assistance, and educational support.
* Funding is provided by the City of San Diego and the San Diego Regional Task force on Homelessness.
* A contract with Jewish Family Service to operate the program is pending board approval on November 7th.
This initiative represents a significant step towards providing stability and support for families experiencing homelessness in San Diego, and demonstrates the SDUSD’s commitment to addressing the needs of its most vulnerable students and families. The success of this program will likely inform future efforts to combat homelessness and ensure all students have the prospect to thrive.