The City of Long Beach broke ground on its latest initiative to combat homelessness, focusing on the city's youth with the start of renovations for its inaugural Youth Shelter and Navigation Center. Touted as the first permanent shelter of its kind in the city for young individuals between the ages of 18 and 24, the project comes with a $4.1 million price tag. The facility will provide more than just a bed; it's set to include essential support services aimed at helping these young adults regain stability.
Mayor Rex Richardson spoke about the center's purpose, stating, "The Long Beach Youth Shelter and Navigation Center will provide a safe haven and lifeline for young adults who need our support at their most vulnerable moments." The Long Beach community sees this project as a means to curb the homelessness cycle for generations to come. Renovations of the 5,400-square-foot property at 1718 Hayes Ave. are scheduled to kick off next month and aim to transform the current space into an environment ready to greet those in need with open arms.
The shelter plans to offer 12 beds along with amenities such as restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and a kitchenette. In addition, the center is dedicated to providing connections to social services and case management on-site. Managed by the April Parker Foundation and the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services, it ensures the youth have access to an array of opportunities for betterment. According to the city's announcement, individuals seeking to use the facility will require a referral from the Multi-Service Center or the mobile outreach services.
The site is also set to extend a helping hand by providing daily storage capabilities for the homeless community at large, independent of age. This service will be offered seven days a week. "Our goal is to ensure that youth who are experiencing homelessness in Long Beach have a safe place to stay and the resources they need to thrive," said Seventh District Councilmember, Roberto Uranga. Construction enhancements will include new interior elements and an exterior facelift with an aim for completion by early 2025.
Funding for this endeavor comes from several sources, including $1.8 million in Measure A funds, $900,000 from the State of California through the Homeless Emergency Aid Program, and $1.4 million from the State of California AB32 funds. The project stands not just as a structure but as a beacon of community compassion and resolve to address the issue of youth homelessness with a concrete, thoughtful action plan geared towards inclusivity.
