HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY - J. RYDINGSWORD

Authorize Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) to operate the

Winter Warming Shelter Program from December 3, 2016 through March 31, 2017.

SBC FILE NUMBER: 130

On November of last year, the board approved HHSA, Community Services & Workforce Development (CSWD) to implement the Winter Warming Shelter in anticipation of El Niño heavy rains and to protect our homeless community by providing shelter, meals and support services. Because of the successful Winter Warming Shelter last year and because the Homeless Coalition is no longer in operation, HHSA is proposing that CSWD once again operate this year's shelter from December 3, 2016 through March 31, 2017. The County will lease up to 10 rooms from the Farm Labor Association (FLA) to serve up to 40 homeless individuals at the San Benito Migrant Labor Camp. If there is an overflow, additional rooms will be made available.

The program will provide transportation, meals, a warm bed and security among other activities. Based on last year's expenditures, HHSA estimates that a total of $189,523 is required to operate the program. HHSA has secured $129,388 leaving a fundraising goal of $60,135. The Farm Labor Association (FLA) approached HHSA to provide the meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) to all shelter guests for the duration of the program at a cost of $53,550. Given this, we would have a budget shortfall of $44,865. We are working diligently to meet our budget gap. A proposal to the State County Medical Services Program (CMSP) has been submitted in the amount of $80,000 to cover the difference. In addition, the City of Hollister is considering a contribution of $25,000. The City Council is expected to take action at their October 17, 2016 meeting. If these revenues are received, we would have the funding in place to operate the program. There will be no further county general funds requested.

The State Housing and Community Development has granted approval to Health and Human Services Agency, Community Services & Workforce Development (CSWD) to implement the program at the SBC Southside Labor Camp (See attached letter). The County has also submitted a letter to HCD to request the use of the facility and to assure HCD of a few conditions (see attached letter).  Staff is still finalizing the agreement with the FLA and will bring it back to the board for action in November. In addition, the security agreement will be brought to the board in November.

With the approval to proceed with the Winter Warming Shelter, staff will immediately start the process to hire seasonal staff to assist with the implementation of the shelter. It is our goal that all staff be hired and trained by the end of November.

Attached is the Program Operating Plan including the most updated budget for your reference.

Authorize Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) to operate the

Winter Warming Shelter Program from December, 3 2016 through March 31, 2017 at the SBC Southside Labor Camp.