Colleen Householder - Homelessness in Northern Sonoma County

Colleen Householder, Northern Sonoma County Services

Homelessness in Healdsburg and North Sonoma County

 

Colleen presented a history of services for the homeless in Healdsburg. Services have been provided since 1976 when a program was started at St. Paul's Episcopal Church. That facility continues to house the office that Colleen occupies at this time. There is a growing need for service to this sector of our population. At last count, done one year ago, there were over 300 documented homeless people living in the Healdsburg area. Not only do these people need shelter, but also have needs for bathing, food services, counseling and employment training.

 

Temporary housing is provided, but is grossly inadequate. The agency also provides 11 units of “transitional housing” for these people. Funding for these programs is rarely adequate.

 

At the present time there are pressing needs for office space, a program director, a case manager and a person to deal with handling funding that does come in for the agency. There are also needs for more family housing, life-skills training, particularly as it relates to employment, and other support services for family members that may be involved who are not able to be employed. Program services are available at the St. Paul's facility. There is an informational hotline in Sonoma County that people can access by calling 211. This will give them a list of resources in their area.

 

Northern Sonoma County Services is looking for volunteers, supplies, and office equipment to help fulfill the needs that they have at the present time. Rotarians are invited to attend a board meeting and to inquire about other ways in which they may be involved with the program. The Interact Club at Healdsburg High School is conducting a drive to collect toiletries and other sundries for use at the program.

 

Colleen may be reached at colleen.householder@Gmail.com and you may also visit the website at nccs@stpauls-Healdsburg.org.