5Cities Homeless Coalition

The immediate needs program assists homeless and low-income families who reside in the five cities area (arroyo grande, pismo beach, grover beach, shell beach, avila beach) with funds to address their immediate needs and move them to self-sufficiency, home stability, and economic improvement. Assistance is used for utilities, fuel, auto repairs, food, clothing, and unpaid bills paid directly to applicable vendors on behalf of program participants. The homeless youth program matches a case manager with unaccompanied youth aged 16-24 to provide education, connection, and services such as immediate needs, housing, and development of an individualized action plan to assist them in living independently, maintaining steady employment, and continuing their education. Those enrolled in 5chc's case management program are offered additional guidance and advocacy for obtaining and retaining public benefits such as supplemental security income (ssi), social security disability insurance (ssdi), calfresh, and other assistance. Participants are encouraged to learn financial literacy and budgeting.

The warming center provides an overnight warming center during the winter months when temperature predictions are at or below 38 degrees or there is rain potential of 50% or more from november through april annually. Those staying at the warming center are provided meals and laundry services and may arrive by 5:30pm and leave by 7am the following day.

Outreach and other programs, information and referral, coordinated entry:assistance begins with general information and referral to community services coupled with a comprehensive assessment of needs, identification of barriers to success, and development of an immediate action plan. 5chc's staff serves as a source of knowledge, information, and referral services to those in need.