FAQs
There are many misconceptions about homelessness on the Peninsula. To shed more light on the topic, here are some frequently asked questions.
Is homelessness a problem that can be solved?
Yes. Since Shelter Network began, an average of 80% of the families and 65% of the individuals who complete Shelter Network's programs return to permanent housing. A solution that works does exist. Most of the homeless families and individuals on the Peninsula are situationally homeless (vs. chronically1 homeless) due to loss of income, increasing living costs, or a severe financial or medical crisis. Transitional housing with solid support services gives these individuals and families the respite and help needed to get back on their feet, and succeed in returning to self-sufficiency and permanent housing.
Is there really a homeless problem on the Peninsula?
Yes. In fiscal year 2010-2011, Shelter Network assisted 4,658 homeless people. Over a third of them were children.
Why don't I see homeless families on the streets?
Homeless families are the "hidden" or "invisible" homeless. The majority of Shelter Network's clients are working parents and their children. It is impossible to identify these people as "homeless" by sight because they are typically working in low-income jobs, or looking for work during the day, and their children are in school. At night, they sleep in their vehicles, garages, or motels until their funds are exhausted.
Do some homeless people have jobs?
Many of the parents in homeless families served by Shelter Network do have jobs, but they are low-paying jobs and don't provide enough income to cover the high cost of housing. Living paycheck to paycheck, one emergency can lead to a financial crisis resulting in homelessness.
Are all homeless people alcoholics, drug addicts or mentally ill?
The vast majority of homeless people on the Peninsula are hard-working families who have become homeless because of a financial emergency. Fewer than 10% of the families in Shelter Network's programs are homeless because of drug and alcohol problems or mental illness. A larger portion of the homeless single adults in our community suffer from substance addiction or mental illness. For that reason, Shelter Network's program for homeless men and women, Maple Street Shelter, includes comprehensive on-site services to help residents address these issues and connect them with the services they need, so that they can overcome these challenges to lead productive, self-sufficient lives.
Are all shelters for homeless people big, over crowded rooms filled with cots?
No. The facilities at Shelter Network program locations typically provide modern and bright studio, one- or two-bedroom apartments in residential apartment buildings. Apartments provide families with the dignity and warmth of a real home. All family locations have on-site computer rooms and children's play rooms, while two of our facilities also have free licensed on-site childcare facilities. All programs also have small meeting rooms for classes and life-skills workshops.
Is it really possible for an individual person to make a difference in solving homelessness?
Yes! Shelter Network's programs succeed in solving homelessness by working with one family or individual at a time, providing the support they need to get back on their feet and become self-sufficient again. And Shelter Network's programs have been so successful because of our strong community support - because one volunteer or donor at a time has made a commitment to be a part of the solution to homelessness. Your individual donation, advocacy, or volunteer effort really does make a difference by providing the children, parents, men and women we serve with the concrete items and one-on-one support they need to overcome homelessness. Just as importantly, your contributions and involvement show these families and individuals that their community supports them as they work hard to rebuild their lives.
What kind of donations does Shelter Network accept and where/how do I give them?
Financial contributions are always needed, and household goods are also excellent donations and can be given in a variety of easy ways. Click here for more information about donating to Shelter Network.
How can I become a volunteer for Shelter Network?
Volunteers are vital to Shelter Network's programs and we welcome individuals, companies, and community groups to give their time and make a difference! For information about current and future volunteer opportunities at Shelter Network please click here.
Who are the homeless people that Shelter Network helps?
Many people are surprised to learn that the majority of Shelter Network's clients are working families with children. These families and individuals make up an "invisible" segment of homeless people because it is impossible to identify them as "homeless" by sight. They are typically working in low-income jobs, or looking for work during the day, and their children are in school. At night they sleep in the homes of friend and relatives, or sleep in their vehicles.
What is the demand for shelter on any given night?
Every night on the Peninsula there are homeless families and individuals who go without safe shelter because there is not enough space to serve them.
How effective are Shelter Network's programs?
Over 80% of families and 65% of single adults completing Shelter Network's transitional housing programs return to permanent housing. The successful programs provide families and individuals with the resources and skills they need to return to self-sufficiency and avoid becoming homeless again in the future. The focus is on permanent solutions, not temporary fixes.
What services are offered by Shelter Network?
We offer more than just a bed and a meal for the night. Our programs provide safe housing, food and basic necessities as well as one-on-one counseling, childcare and children's programs, and assistance in increasing income, saving, and locating housing. Click here for more information about Shelter Network's programs.
How does someone who is homeless or about to become homeless apply to get into the Shelter Network program?
To be eligible for one of Shelter Network's programs, a family or individual must be currently homeless or facing eviction within a week, currently live or work in San Mateo County, be willing to participate in the program and follow all the program rules, and meet certain other criteria relating to substance addiction, criminal records, and domestic violence. If you meet these qualifications, you will first need to contact a community referral agency for a referral. Click here for more information about applying to the Shelter Network program.
How can I find out about jobs at Shelter Network?
For information about current job opportunities at Shelter Network please click here.
Does Shelter Network collaborate with other organizations or agencies?
Shelter Network works extensively with other nonprofits and community groups to meet all the needs of the families and individuals we serve. By collaborating, we build on the expertise of established community partners, and avoid unnecessary duplication of services. Some of our partners include Second Harvest Food Bank, St. Anthony's Kitchen, Family Service Agency, Project 90, Women's Recovery Association, Service League, and numerous others. For more information please contact Tanja Rieck, Assistant Director of Programs and Services: treick@shelternetwork.org.
- HUD definition: A person who is "chronically homeless" is an unaccompanied homeless individual with a disabling condition who has either been continuously homeless for a year or more, or has had at least four (4) episodes of homelessness in the past three (3) years.
Watch How Shelter Network is Changing LivesPlease visit the Shelter Network YouTube channel to view Shelter Network-related videos. |