Since opening its doors in December 2020, the Huntington Beach Navigation Center (HBNC) has been a life-changing resource for people experiencing homelessness in Huntington Beach. With the assistance of the City’s hardworking Homeless Task Force, HB’s unhoused community now has a safe place to eat, sleep, and receive the resources they need to get back on their feet.
Although the COVID-19 pandemic has been hard for many residents of Huntington Beach, it has not stopped the Homeless Task Force from changing people’s lives for the better. Over 4,400 outreach contacts were made with those experiencing homelessness by our Homeless Task Force in 2021. Their hard work, in partnership with the Navigation Center’s operator, Mercy House, has been critical for those navigating their way from the depths of despair to the heights of hope.
“It is never easy to ask for help, so when members of our homeless community are ready to accept services, it is important they have a safe, clean, and well-managed facility like the Navigation Center available for them,” said Huntington Beach Mayor Barbara Delgleize. “Every person experiencing homelessness is in a unique situation and in need of different types of support. The Navigation Center has served as a hub to get people the help they need, when they need it.”
In the Navigation Center’s first year of operation, 277 unduplicated individuals were served and housed at the facility. In partnership with Mercy House, 43 people found a permanent housing solution. In addition, 71 people have qualified for permanent housing and are just waiting for a permanent solution to become available.
The Navigation Center provides more than just a hot meal and a bed for those in need. A wide array of supporting services are available for those staying at the facility. These services include mental health, job training, education, addiction support, and document services. The range of supportive services offered aims to give tools and opportunities for Navigation Center guests to get back on track and support themselves.
To read the 2021 Annual Report and learn more about the Navigation Center and the services it is providing to aid those experiencing homelessness, please visit: www.hbhomelesssolutions.com.
