This story was provided by Community Services Workforce Development.

Local elected officials will join the Community Action Board (CAB) at the ribbon cutting ceremony of the newly renovated H.O.M.E. (Housing Opportunities Meals Empowerment) Resource Center.

The CAB conducted several community needs assessments and homelessness was identified as a top priority. In 2014 CSWD applied for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for Public Facilities and was awarded $1.5 million.

Several locations were identified as a potential site for the H.O.M.E. Resource Center, however; they were met with opposition. It was finally decided to purchase the 12,500 square foot building located near the Community Services Building which is near vital support services.

Phase I of the H.O.M.E. Resource Center is 4,700 square feet and will provide a warm bed for 50 homeless individuals (28 men and 22 women) beginning Dec. 1. Guests will also be provided with meals, shower facilities, lockers, and supportive services which will aid them in becoming self sufficient.

In 2016, CSWD applied for additional CDBG and was awarded another $1.5 million. These funds will be for Phase II which will include a kitchen and training workshops.

The San Benito County CAB is excited for the opportunity to provide this much needed service to our homeless population.

Mission: The CAB will assist our vulnerable populations with resources to obtain skills, knowledge and opportunities toward self-sufficiency.

Vision: Ending Poverty by Empowering People

The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will take place as follows:

Date: Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Time: 1:30 P.M.

Location: H.O.M.E. Resource Center, 1161 San Felipe Road, Hollister, CA 95023

Special Invited Guests: Board of Supervisor Chair, Jaime De La Cruz and Mayor Ignacio Velasquez