News Summary

San Diego’s Safe STAY program has taken significant strides in combating youth homelessness by relocating to a new downtown office that will double its capacity. The new shelter can accommodate up to 43 young adults, greatly enhancing the support provided to those aged 18 to 24. Designed for privacy and long-term support, the facility aims to empower homeless youth through comprehensive services. With $1.5 million in federal funding and collaborations with local organizations, this initiative reflects a strong community commitment to addressing youth homelessness in San Diego.

San Diego’s Safe STAY Program Takes A Major Step Forward!

San Diego is making waves in its fight against youth homelessness! The city’s Safe STAY program has just moved into a new office site downtown, and it’s bringing some exciting changes along with it. With this move, the program is set to double its capacity and significantly enhance support for homeless young adults. Talk about a win for the community!

New Shelter Ready to Take in More Young Adults

The new shelter is designed to accommodate up to 43 transition-age youth, which is a huge leap from the previous interim sites that only managed to help 21 young people aged 18 to 24. The additional space means more young adults will have a safe place to call home while they navigate their way through tough times.

Designed for Privacy and Long-Term Support

This state-of-the-art shelter is not your typical facility—providing *semi-congregate housing* that offers more privacy compared to traditional shelters. The thoughtful design aims to help young adults feel secure and respected in their living environment. Plus, the location is perfectly situated near transit and schools, making it easier for residents to access essential services and educational opportunities.

Working Together for Youth Success

The San Diego Housing Commission is teaming up with several local organizations, such as the San Diego LGBT Community Center, San Diego Youth Services, and the YMCA, to operate the shelter. While the focus is on providing valuable services for LGBTQ+ youth facing homelessness, the doors are open to all young adults who need a helping hand.

Federal Funding Boosts Efforts

In a fantastic show of support, $1.5 million in federal funding was secured to get this shelter up and running. This funding reflects a broader commitment to addressing the urgent needs of homeless youth in the community—a truly important step that showcases collaboration and care for the younger generation.

Tackling Youth Homelessness Head-On

Statistics reveal a *concerning trend* in San Diego. A recent count from the Regional Task Force on Homelessness revealed a shocking 21% increase in transition-age youth experiencing homelessness, jumping from 739 in 2023 to 897 in 2024. This highlights just how vital services like the Safe STAY program are for young people in need.

Comprehensive Services Offered

But the shelter provides more than just a roof overhead. The Safe STAY program offers a range of important services, including housing-focused case management, transportation assistance, employment support, and access to mental health services. It’s about empowering youth to build a brighter future.

Fast Progress and Future Plans

Incredibly, the construction of the shelter site was completed in just about seven months. The facility comes equipped with all the necessary amenities, including restrooms, a kitchenette, dining and laundry spaces, and staff offices—everything needed to make residents feel at home.

Commitment to Ongoing Support

The annual operating budget for the Safe STAY program sits at around $1.9 million. City leaders are determined to keep the shelter functioning as long as necessary to provide continuous support for young adults who find themselves in difficult situations.

As San Diego rolls out this new shelter, there’s a sense of hope for the future of many young people in our community. With collaborative efforts in place and an emphasis on both service and support, the Safe STAY program is on a strong path to making a real difference in the lives of homeless youth in the city!