East SBV Times

Operation Shelter Me, a program aimed at providing housing, medical, and mental health treatment services to unhoused residents, continues to make a positive impact in the town of Apple Valley and surrounding communities. The initiative, led by the Community Service & Reentry Division, Homeless Outreach Proactive Enforcement Team (H.O.P.E.), focuses on connecting staff with individuals in need and offering them essential resources.

During a recent operation, the team was able to provide referrals and services to several individuals. As stated by the report, "The team provided 17 individuals with referrals to programs for assistance. Twelve individuals were linked with follow-up professional services and one family was placed in bridge housing with linkage to long term services." Additionally, over 70% of the individuals contacted were open to receiving services, showing the effectiveness of the outreach efforts.

One individual identified during the operation appeared to meet the criteria for Laura's Law services, a court-ordered community treatment pathway for individuals with specific histories. This highlights the importance of tailored support for those facing mental health challenges within the unhoused population.

The ongoing success of Operation Shelter Me is made possible by funding from Senate Bill 170, which supports the Department in its efforts to provide crucial services to those in need. The H.O.P.E. Team, along with other aligned resources, will continue to conduct similar operations throughout San Bernardino County in the coming years.

For individuals aware of homeless individuals in need of assistance, the H.O.P.E. Team can be reached at 909-387-0623 or [email protected]

In conclusion, Operation Shelter Me remains dedicated to supporting unhoused residents by offering them vital resources and pathways to a better quality of life.