Since March, 2010, the Safe Sleep program has offered homeless people a safe place to sleep in their cars in our parking lot without being cited. (It is otherwise illegal throughout the city to sleep in a vehicle.) Hours are restricted to 7 pm through 7 am, and the Salvation Army handles applicant screening and other administrative aspects of the program.
Participants must apply for the program through the Salvation Army, and meet certain conditions to be eligible for the program. They also receive services to help give them a path out of homelessness. Guests are screened by The Salvation Army and have a case worker assigned to them. It is our intention to create a friendly, welcoming experience for all.
Action Opportunities:
- Welcome Packets
- Site Monitors
To volunteer for these Action Opportunities contact the Lift Up Your Voice Director
History
- May 2009 – the City of Ventura approved and funded a pilot sleeping in cars program known as Safe Sleep Ventura.
- October 2009 – Ventura City Council approved The Salvation Army as the lead agency for the pilot program. Agreements between The Salvation Army and lot owners were established, rules developed and case management staff hired.
- March 2010 – Safe Sleep begins
Applicants
Please schedule an appointment by calling The Salvation Army at 805-648-5032.
Inquiries can be directed to luyv@liftupyourvoice.org.