In a move towards mitigating the homelessness crisis, Long Beach has transformed a former nuisance spot into Homekey at 5950, an interim housing facility providing respite for those without homes. The city celebrated the opening of this new site on Oct. 29 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, where once the Luxury Inn stood, now lies a beacon of hope for 78 individuals struggling with homelessness, including 12 units that are fully ADA-accessible.
Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson spoke at the event, highlighting the renovations made to the property, "We’ve turned a once-nuisance motel into a welcoming, supportive space for people on the path from homelessness to stability," he said, according to the City of Long Beach press release. The facility boasts new bathrooms, modern lighting, and necessary living appliances like microwaves and refrigerators. Residents will also have access to three meals a day and case management focused on facilitating the transition to permanent housing.
Not merely a place to sleep, Homekey at 5950 will be operated by the nonprofit First to Serve, and will deliver comprehensive support resources, designed to efficiently confront housing crises. From case management to coordinated housing referrals, residents are expected to receive multifaceted services aimed at long-term stability. Eighth District Councilwoman Tunua Thrash-Ntuk told the press release, "At the new Homekey at 5950, residents will find more than safe shelter; they will find the stability and support to begin their journey to permanent housing.”
The project, part of the State’s Project Homekey initiative, was financed through a combination of funding sources, including State grants and the City’s Measure A. The refurbished inn is one link in a chain of major homelessness services projects undertaken by the city within the past five years. The city has seen a 159% increase in available year-round beds since the start of 2020, from 562 to 1,455, with even more projects like the Encampment Resolution Fund and Roots through Recovery slated to open by the end of this year and early 2026.
Long Beach's commitment to combating homelessness extends beyond such facilities, with its residents encouraged to contribute through essential donations at various city locations, including Long Beach Public Library branches. More information about Homekey at 5950 specifically, and various supportive services can be found on the project webpage.
