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Extracted from Consolidated Report

This investigation was originally published as part of a larger consolidated report containing multiple investigations. View the consolidated PDF for the complete document.

Nevada County Grand Jury • 2008-2009

Helping Hands for the Homeless/Needy in Nevada County

Published: January 23, 2009 4 pages
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Findings and Recommendations 22 findings

F1
Available records show a sharp increase in the number of people applying for short-term assistance with food and shelter. Every agency interviewed indicated that its resources are stretched to the limit.
No recommendations for this finding
F2
There is no indication that the increase in demand is due to new arrivals from outside the county.
No recommendations for this finding
F3
A census of the homeless population in Nevada County was conducted on January 23,
No recommendations for this finding
F4
It is estimated there are 50 to 60 homeless children in Nevada County.
No recommendations for this finding
F5
Some examples of the expanding need: a. The Food Bank provided food to 770 families in January 2009 compared to 392 in the same month in 2008. b. The demand for services from the Emergency Assistance Coalition, which provides food, shelter, and/or gasoline, has more than doubled.
No recommendations for this finding
F6
Nevada County funding for the support community increased 40% over the past year.
No recommendations for this finding
F7
Some coordination exists among the non-profit organizations for the homeless. The Nevada County Health & Human Services Agency is planning a workshop in the Fall to better coordinate these efforts.
No recommendations for this finding
F8
The Food Bank gives food to anyone without exception. a. The Food Bank utilizes 78 volunteers and employs three staff members. b. The Food Bank’s annual budget is approximately $233,000. The greater portion of this money comes from private donations. c. The Food Bank receives food monthly from a Sacramento farmer’s group. A truckload of food is also provided by the Mountain People’s Warehouse in Auburn twice a month. d. The Food Bank delivers food to Hospitality House once a week. e. Approximately one third of the Food Bank food is provided directly to families. f. The main distribution point for families to pick up their grocery supplies is located in an industrial area. The parking lot has heavy truck traffic, presenting a safety hazard for families with young children.
No recommendations for this finding
F9
The Interfaith Food Ministry is a collective of religious groups, civic organizations, volunteers and donors, distributing groceries at their Whiting Street location.
No recommendations for this finding
F10
Three churches serve food prepared by volunteers: a. St. Patrick’s Church b. United Methodist Church c. St. Canice Church
No recommendations for this finding
F11
Details on time and location are available at the Hospitality House Welcome Center.
No recommendations for this finding
F12
The Salvation Army provides shelter at the Booth Center for nine families for up to 180 days. They currently have a waiting list.
No recommendations for this finding
F13
The Emergency Assistance Coalition provides vouchers for shelter, gasoline and/or food. Their goal is to provide short-term assistance.
No recommendations for this finding
F14
The Family Resource Center of Truckee provides gift cards for food and sponsors a weekly hot meal night.
No recommendations for this finding
F15
The Town of Truckee does not have a shelter for its homeless population.
No recommendations for this finding
F16
Hospitality House receives guests at the Welcome Center where they are screened for security assurance, health conditions, sobriety, and police record check. The following services are provided year-round at the Welcome Center: a. Lunch five days a week b. Showers and laundry facilities c. Information referral
No recommendations for this finding
F17
In addition to the above, from October 15 thru April 30, Hospitality House coordinates the services provided by participating churches. The following is provided to approximately 30 people: a. Transportation to and from the host church. b. Overnight shelter at various western Nevada County churches. c. Dinner at the host church
No recommendations for this finding
F18
There is no limit to the number of nights of shelter for each guest from October 15th to April 30th.
No recommendations for this finding
F19
Volunteers of the hosting church monitor and provide overnight security.
No recommendations for this finding
F20
Pets are not allowed at these shelters.
No recommendations for this finding
F21
The Nevada County Department of Social Services publishes a directory of organizations one can go to for support. The pamphlet is called Nevada County Community Resource Directory and is available at local libraries and online at www.Dial211.com.
No recommendations for this finding
F22
During the months when shelter is not available, many homeless shelter in communal camps in high fire hazard areas. Conclusions
No recommendations for this finding

Conclusions 4