PLACERVILLE, Ca. (Volunteers of America) — In early February, Volunteers of America Northern California and Northern Nevada is opening a navigation center in the city of Placerville, CA for those experiencing homelessness. The El Dorado Navigation Center is designed to be a safe indoor space for anyone experiencing homelessness in the Placerville region. The center is considered a low-barrier shelter, making entry for every participant as easy as possible. With leadership from El Dorado County, the temporary center has been chosen as Placerville’s vacant juvenile detention center. In the past, the building had been leased out for seasonal workers, such as the Placerville Fire Department. In January 2022, Volunteers of America was selected to run the center through an RFP (Request for Proposal) process. The center is projected to be located at the old juvenile hall for two years before moving into a permanent facility that will be constructed close by.
The navigation center will be the first of its kind for El Dorado County, providing short-term shelter for 60 individuals. El Dorado County Health and Human Service Agency (HHSA) has contracted with Volunteers of America to provide operation and case management services. The program will be operational 24/7 and staff will provide support for clients residing inside the shelter. The county will provide housing assistance and behavioral health services (AOD and mental health). Local partners are also stepping in to support the project, such as Marshall Hospital, Upper Room (providing meal services), and Humane Society.
The center is furnished with 60 beds and a secured outdoor recreational area. VOA has been working hard to upgrade the juvenile center into a more welcoming environment for guests. The barbed wire on the fencing has been taken down and the interior has been freshly painted. Guests will be supplied with three storage totes and will be able to bring their animal companions, cats, or dogs.
VOA conducts a thorough orientation and education around Evidence-Based Practices such as trauma-informed care, de-escalation, health, and safety for all staff. Staff will receive continuing education to provide comprehensive services to clients around long-term housing and sustainability.
The El Dorado Navigation Center ribbon-cutting will take place on February 6th at 11 am at 299 Fair Lane, and is set to open to clients in the following days.
