East SBV Times

On Friday, March 29, 2024, the Community Service & Reentry Division, Homeless Outreach Proactive Enforcement Team (H.O.P.E.) conducted "Operation Shelter Me" in Loma Linda and surrounding areas of San Bernardino County. The operation aimed to connect staff with unhoused residents and offer them housing, medical, and mental health treatment services.

During the operation, the team focused on individuals with the most significant mental illness to connect them with restorative mental health pathways. According to the Sheriff-Coroner Department of San Bernardino County, 24 individuals received referrals to programs for assistance, 11 individuals were linked with follow-up professional services, and one veteran individual was placed in bridge housing with linkage to long-term services.

In June 2023, San Bernardino County opted into Laura’s Law, which provides court-ordered community treatment pathways for individuals with specific histories. As part of Operation Shelter Me, deputies identified an individual who appeared to meet the criteria for Laura's Law services and will be connected with the Department of Behavioral Health for further assistance.

The H.O.P.E. Team provided this focused outreach due to Senate Bill 170, which allocated funding to support ongoing operations of this nature. Shannon D. Dicus, Sheriff-Coroner of San Bernardino County, highlighted that the team and other aligned resources will continue similar operations throughout the county in the coming years.

Individuals experiencing homelessness in need of services are encouraged to contact the H.O.P.E. Team at 909-387-0623 or [email protected]

In summary, Operation Shelter Me in Loma Linda and surrounding areas is a concerted effort to connect unhoused individuals with vital services, particularly focusing on mental health support and long-term solutions.