The City of Ventura has activated its foul weather shelter plan to provide temporary shelter and stay warm packs to Ventura’s most vulnerable populations during extreme weather events, such as severe rain, wind or low temperatures.
“Ventura has an active community of local social service providers and nonprofits that support outreach and helping us serve our most vulnerable population,” said Housing Services Manager Leona Rollins. “This winter season is already proving to be frigid, so we are extra excited to continue with another year of service.”
This plan is a partnership with the River Community Church to provide emergency temporary shelter that offers 20 motel rooms those experiencing homelessness. To date, over 1,800 meals have been provided, 50 stay warm packs distributed, and over 100 people have received shelter through the program.
Priority is given to homeless individuals who are 65 and older or live with chronic health conditions. Shelters will be activated at least 48 hours in advance when temperatures are projected to fall below 45 degrees or if weather projections show more than a quarter inch of rain overnight.
The City is now accepting community donations to create stay warm packs for those unable to secure a motel room during a harsh weather event. Needed donations include rain ponchos, blankets, jackets, hand-warmers, socks, toiletries, soft snacks, tarps, and carrying bags for items.
Community members interested in supporting the effort can:
Bring materials to the River Community Church office, located at 859 E. Santa Clara Street.
Purchase needed items through the Amazon Wishlist. All supplies will be automatically shipped to the proper location.
Send monetary donations by mail. Checks should be labeled “Foul Weather” and mailed to 859 E. Santa Clara Street, Ventura, CA, 93001.
Donate online at www.CityofVentura.ca.gov/FoulWeather
Volunteer on the evenings the shelter is activated. Sign-up online at www.CityofVentura.ca.gov/FoulWeather
The Foul Weather Shelter Plan opened on December 1, 2022 and runs through March 31, 2023.
To learn more about the Foul Weather Shelter Plan, please visit the City’s website at
www.CityofVentura.ca.gov/FoulWeather or contact Leona Rollins, Housing Services Manager, at [email protected].
