Currently, several agencies and organizations provide shelter for the homeless directly, in their own facilities, or issue motel vouchers. These include the Ford Street Project, Hospitality House, Project Sanctuary, Ukiah Community Center and the Department of Social Services. However, due to budget constraints and restrictions on eligibility, many childless adults are unable to qualify for shelter, leaving a major gap in service. It is estimated there are in excess of 200 homeless persons in Mendocino County on any given night.
The Board of Supervisors has designated the Ford Street Project to serve as lead agency in developing and managing the shelter. The preferred location is the Ukiah Grange on South State Street. This facility has more than 5,000 square feet of space and is located in a largely non-residential area. Plans are to open a shelter on December 15 and for it to remain in operation until the end of March, 2000.
Copyright Mendocino Environmental Center 1999
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