San Diego city officials are taking measures to tackle the issue of homelessness by announcing plans to replace shelter beds that will be lost when two facilities close at year's end. According to a document from the City of San Diego, the Homelessness Strategies and Solutions Department (HSSD) aims to present a short-term plan today for the shortfall expected when Golden Hall and the Paul Mirabile Center shut down.
Since June 2023, the city has made strides by adding 930 extra beds to its shelter system. However, the comprehensive shelter strategy reveals a looming shortcoming: Two existing shelters are anticipated to terminate operations by 2024. HSSD is working with the San Diego Housing Commission (SDHC) to create transition plans for those currently housed in these facilities. In a statement detailed by the City of San Diego, regular meetings are being conducted to "analyze available properties for use, including City-owned and private properties."
In August, in search of solutions, HSSD formally contacted the City Council and the Office of the Independent Budget Analyst to identify potential properties for future shelters, some of which are under City staff review. Input sessions with service providers and feedback from people with lived experiences of homelessness have been considered to ensure that the upcoming shelter options can effectively aid in the transition to permanent housing.
Earlier this month, San Diego issued a formal solicitation with a Request for Information set to run until Oct. 7. The city remains in the process of negotiating a lease for Hope @ Vine in Middletown, which promises a modern and dignified permanent shelter.
