COMMUNITY ASSETS and RISKS

During the Community Immersion visit, concentrating on the homeless population to the cities of Costa Mesa, Santa Ana and Orange, I became aware of the community resources available to individuals as well as the need for additional services. Emergency housing in the three cities that I visited did not entirely meet community needs. Overall, there were not enough emergency shelters available, particularly for homeless men. Similarly, the transitional housing available had unrealistic requirements such as having good credit and maintaining employment. Below is a brief description of some of the community assets available to those individuals experiencing crisis:

Costa Mesa Motor Inn: This emergency shelter for families is made possible by the Illumination Foundation. It houses up to 75 families. They provide wrap-around services for their families such as Head Start, tutoring for the children, therapeutic services, enrichment programs for the children, focus groups, and local schools go on site to complete registration. Local synagogues and Mariner’s Church are additional community assets that provide services and financial contributions to the community.

Isaiah House: This is a privately funded emergency shelter currently operated by Dwight and Leia Smith. Established 21 years ago, the Smiths consider their home a free space for up to 150 women and children. In addition to emergency housing, meals are provided and distributed by the Santa Ana Civic Center.

Project HOPE: This is a K-8th grade school for up to fifty homeless children operating on a year-round bsis. Project HOPE provides transportation to and from the school in Orange. The organization collaborates with the Boys and Girls Club for after-school enrichment programs.