Sixteen new homes are set to open in Hollister, providing permanent and transitional housing for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in San Benito County.
The Southside Haven Community Housing Project will hold a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10:30am Sept. 8 at 3235 Southside Road in Hollister.
The project combines 11 permanent supportive housing units with five transitional housing units. County officials said the development represents a significant investment in addressing homelessness through housing, case management and other supportive services.
The 11 permanent supportive housing units were funded through the California Department of Housing and Community Development’s Homekey program. They will provide affordable housing and individualized supportive services intended to help residents maintain long-term housing stability and work toward greater independence, the county said in a press release.
The five transitional housing units were funded through the Homeless Emergency Assistance Program in partnership with the local Continuum of Care. They will serve families and chronically homeless people with temporary housing, case management and supportive services while they work toward securing permanent housing.
The project was developed through a partnership of local and state agencies and organizations, including the San Benito County Health & Human Services Agency, Community Services & Workforce Development and the San Benito County Community Action Board.
“I am incredibly proud to see Southside Haven Community come to life and to have played a role in creating 16 new housing opportunities for individuals and families in our community,” said Tracey Belton, director of the San Benito County Health & Human Services Agency. “These homes provide more than a roof over someone’s head, they provide stability, dignity and access to resources that can support a stronger and more successful future.”
CAB Chair Ellen Laitinen added, “The opening of Southside Haven Community represents more than new housing, it represents hope, partnership and our community’s commitment to ensuring individuals and families have the opportunity to build brighter futures.”
County officials said stable housing can help improve health, educational and employment opportunities, and long-term self-sufficiency.
The county credited the state Department of Housing and Community Development, the local Continuum of Care and the San Benito County Board of Supervisors for their support of the project.
People interested in eligibility or the application process can contact Community Services & Workforce Development at 831.637.9293.
