My Nonprofit Reviews

I took a tour of a HomeFirst shelter in 2019 and truly wish we had a place like this to care for our homeless population in Sacramento! The facilities are clean and organized. Staff are friendly and supportive. It seems HomeFirst has done some out-of-the-box thinking to serve their guests too. One example is the addition of on-site pet kennels. A dog can be the only loving support an unhoused person has. Many refuse shelter services because they do not want to leave their beloved pets behind. The kennels help homeless people leave their pet in a safe place while they use the facilities and services needed. This has allowed more to accept services. I really appreciate this approach!
It’s important to recognize that the homeless population is diverse and very difficult to serve. Many are drug addicted or have emotional and mental problems. They don’t do well with “following the rules” and can fight against basic shelter guidelines that keep everyone safe and supported. I noticed staff being very clear, yet kind about what is acceptable in the shelter. Pushback from some of the shelter visitors is probably to be expected. The staff seems to handle it with grace and respect. The problems outside the shelter seem to be normal for any type of shelter I’ve seen in a city. Those problems are normally outside the scope of shelters. As in my own city, it’s city leaders and their law enforcement objectives that affect the surrounding community.
As part of a group of neighborhood advocates in Sacramento, I am working to find solutions to homeless on our streets. I have contacted my city leaders and told them to consider HomeFirst as it is the type of well-run shelter we need here!