email: tompoe [ at ] fngi dot net
Homeless Outreach Program/
Safe Parking Program
Our RV Safe Parking Program provides an important service for people living in vehicles. Our Case Manager, Shaw Talley meets with perspective clients and after assessing their life situation places them in one of 10 locations provided by local churches and non-profits including a county and city parking lot adjoining the administrative building. Currently over 50 people participate in this program. Recently, the RV Safe Parking Project was featured on national ABC News, NPR and the PBS program, "California Connected." This program is recognized as a unique way for local people to solve a local problem with a collaborative effort. In the upcoming months, we hope to add additional parking sites to accommodate the demand for safe parking alternatives in the downtown and Isla Vista communities.
The Case Manager also provides job and housing assistance to any homeless person needing assistance. From his office at the Salvation Army, Shaw meets with clients referred from Casa Esparanza, the Salvation Army or the RV project to help them find housing or jobs. Interested parties should direct their calls to Shaw at 805-637-6242.
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Yes, this is an organization located in Santa Barbara, California, one of the more affluent communities in America. Florida seems to have some of the same projects, Los Angeles, the Bay Area. Type in keywords like, "homeless parking lots" and you'll find lots of references. Surprised? Bet your elected officials will be too, when you confront them. "You know, [insert elected official name here], our country is in trouble. Santa Barbara has a dozen parking lots set aside for middle class homeless to park their cars each night, and be secure. Will you be providing the same for me, when I need a parking lot to go to?"