Funding for Dorothy’s Place in Chinatown looks promising

Two months ago, Dorothy’s Place in Chinatown was worried about losing funding for services that help get homeless off the streets and into housing. And today the future is looking brighter.

This is a typical scene outside Dorothy’s Place in Chinatown.

“We’re seeing 120 people a day just in the drop-in center, we’re seeing more like 250 to 300 for meals everyday. People are coming in from outside the neighborhood and seeking services here,” said Dorothy’s Place Executive Director, Jill Allen.

Just two-months ago those services were at risk of being cut.

“We were tremendously worried about budget shortfalls in the county. But that looks like that has been reversed. They found a way to keep homeless services intact. So we are over the moon about that, because that means we can continue serving here,” said Allen.

Serving people like David Cuellar.

“I went through the steps and did whatever they asked me to do, and they got me transitional housing. Hopefully from here I’ll go into a more permanent situation,” said

That’s the hope for many others as well.

“They realize it’s possible and we have over 180 on a waiting list. We have some private investment that is helping us hire four additional social workers ,” said Cuellar.

Which means less people sleeping on the streets.

“Every night im thankful. Just to put my head down on a bed and stay warm and dry,” said Cuellar.

Dorothy’s Place is always in need of private funding. You can learn more about how to help here.