Santa Cruz to expand homeless services

A Santa Cruz County homeless shelter is weeks away from offering year-round services.

The services are coming to the Salvation Army Community Corps center on Laurel Street in the City of Santa Cruz.

The county had only had a seasonal winter shelter program prior. The changes happen July 1.

The county will also keep a shelter at River Street through March 15 of next year.

“This is a moment of recognition that people need shelter throughout the year,” said Rayne Marr, the county homeless services coordinator, “They need the stabilization of having a roof over their head, having access to hygiene services.”

The expansions are part of a public-private partnership with the county and the Homeless Action Partnership.

More funds have also been given to mobile hygiene and housing navigation service to help the homeless transition to permanent housing.

Also in Watsonville, a 38-day shelter will now operate 24/7.