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The San Mateo County Event Center provides homeless people with a warm, dry place to stay during severe winter weather, especially for those experiencing homelessness and families in vulnerable situations.
In partnership with the County Human Services Agency, the facility will be able to house up to 53 of the county's most vulnerable individuals and families, where they can find food, a warm place to sleep, hygiene kits and emergency clothing when the weather is at its worst.
“Our residents make such fond memories at the Event Center. The fact that it remains a trusted refuge and resource during difficult times like the pandemic is a testament to its importance in San Mateo County,” said Supervisor Noelia Corzo. “This partnership with the county is what it means to come together as a resilient and compassionate community.”
The Event Center will open its Cypress Hall to single adults and families when Human Services activates its Inclement Weather Program. This program is activated when forecasts call for a period of extremely low temperatures or when a significant wet weather system is expected to occur.
“People experiencing homelessness are extremely vulnerable during cold weather. Adding warm beds at the Events Center can literally save lives this winter,” said Claire Cunningham, director of the County Human Services Agency. “The Events Center will now be an option for people with few options.”
The Human Services Agency, with funding from the local Measure K half-cent sales tax, contracts with the Events Center to provide emergency shelter services.
Participants must be referred by one of the County's eight Basic Service Agencies (non-profit agencies that work closely with the County) and walk-ins will not be permitted.
“Our collaboration with the San Mateo County Human Services Agency underscores our deep dedication to supporting our community when it matters most,” said Dana Stoehr, executive director of the San Mateo County Events Center.
“As an emergency management site, we are fully committed to providing a safe and supportive environment during inclement weather, and we are honored to open our doors in this capacity,” he added.
County officials expect most activations to last between one and three days.
Anyone in need of social protection services such as: food, emergency housing assistance, emergency utility assistance, shelter, and other basic needs should contact one of the Basic Service Agencies.
Basic Service Agencies provide clients with crisis intervention and referrals based on an assessment of their needs and qualifications for assistance.
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