Program Description:
In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the new Benchlands shelter-in-place program model ensures the existing site’s compliance with CDC and Santa Cruz County Public Health guidelines and will maintain a stable and safe environment for participants and staff. The new model, which is a joint effort by the County of Santa Cruz, City of Santa Cruz and local nonprofit partners, will include sustained outreach efforts over 2-3 weeks to connect directly with all current participants to provide information about the transition to a shelter-in-place site, including opportunities to participate in the program and to connect them with available services. Under the new model, a site manager will help reduce the health and safety risks to residents by ensuring use of face coverings and availability of hygiene services, as well as social distancing. Additional security will also be provided. Participants will have access to three meals per day, showers and storage space. The site manager will also work with outreach teams to engage with participants to connect them with services and programs focused on permanent housing, healthcare and job training.