What is Hope Village?

Hope Village in Santa Maria opened in March, marking a significant milestone in Santa Barbara County’s fight against homelessness. As one of three communities built by DignityMoves in the county, Hope Village provides temporary housing solutions for homeless youth, showcasing the transformative impact of providing compassionate care and support to vulnerable neighbors. Just three months after its grand opening, Hope Village is already demonstrating the power of interim housing in changing lives.

How Does Hope Village Operate?

Hope Village is the result of a unique public-private collaboration involving Good Samaritan Shelters, Dignity Health’s Marian Regional Medical Center, DignityMoves, the County of Santa Barbara, and Fighting Back Santa Maria Valley. The community offers a temporary shelter for the homeless with 94 rooms, including ten specifically designated for transitional-age youth (TAY) operated by Fighting Back Santa Maria Valley.

The Youth and Young Adult Homeless Services (YHS) program at Hope Village supports individuals aged 16-24 who are experiencing homelessness or are at imminent risk. By offering a stable environment with private rooms and secure spaces, these small homeless shelters empower youth to focus on personal development without the constant worry about where to spend the night or find their next meal.

How Are Lives Being Transformed at Hope Village?

The stories of transformation emerging from Hope Village highlight the critical role of affordable housing initiatives in the community. Here are just a few examples of how young residents are benefiting from this emergency housing solution:

• Ethan: Previously homeless and disconnected from mental health services, Ethan has now accessed the care he needs and is preparing to start a job at Smart & Final.
• Liam: Struggling with mental health and substance abuse, Liam had no support as a foster youth living in a car. Now, he is on the Rapid Re-housing list, has received his housing voucher, and is part of a paid work training program. With stable medication and mental health support, Liam is on track to move into his own apartment.
• Noah: As an unemployed foster youth from the Good Samaritan Shelter, Noah now works at a local thrift store and awaits his housing voucher.
• Oliver: Oliver was facing the end of his stay at Good Samaritan Shelter and dealing with mental health challenges when he arrived at Hope Village. He has since connected to mental health services, secured a job at FedEx and will move into his first apartment soon. 
• Mason: Initially reluctant to work or seek mental health services, Mason is now actively participating in mental health treatment, anger management, and the Goodwill job training program.

What Impact Has Hope Village Had on the Community?

The first 11 TAY residents at Hope Village have already found stability and moved on to more permanent housing solutions. This success demonstrates the pivotal role of interim supportive housing in disrupting the cycle of homelessness. By offering housing pods for the homeless, Hope Village creates a pathway off the streets, enabling individuals and families to rebuild their lives and envision a brighter future.

As DignityMoves expands its efforts, the commitment to providing safe spaces for rebuilding lives remains unwavering. These success stories from Hope Village are just the beginning, showcasing how temporary housing programs can catalyze lasting change.

How to Get Involved

If you’re inspired by the work being done at Hope Village and want to contribute to these affordable housing initiatives, consider reaching out through DignityMoves’ contact page. Your support can help expand these efforts and create more opportunities for those in need.

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Need Help?

If you or someone you know is currently experiencing homelessness in Santa Maria and would like to be put on the waitlist for housing at Hope Village, please contact the referral service line above. DignityMoves does not manage referrals for this community.

*The names in this story have been changed to protect individuals’ privacy.

FAQ

What is Hope Village?

Hope Village is a temporary housing solution in Santa Maria, Santa Barbara County, designed to help individuals experiencing homelessness, particularly transitional-age youth, by providing a stable living environment and support services.

How does Hope Village support homeless youth?

Hope Village provides small homeless shelters with private rooms, access to mental health services, job training programs, and pathways to permanent housing, helping youth focus on personal development and stability.

Who are the partners behind Hope Village?

The creation of Hope Village is a collaborative effort between DignityMoves, Good Samaritan Shelters, Dignity Health’s Marian Regional Medical Center, the County of Santa Barbara, and Fighting Back Santa Maria Valley.

How can I support Hope Village and similar initiatives?

To support Hope Village and other affordable housing initiatives, you can visit DignityMoves’ contact page to learn more about volunteer opportunities, donations, and advocacy efforts.