In 2019, before launching the City’s Homeless Strategic Plan, Corona had 164 unsheltered homeless residents. The County’s 2023 Point in Time Count results confirmed that number is now 65 which means we have achieved a 60% reduction in unsheltered homelessness.
The formula for success is our system’s-oriented approach. The City of Corona developed a transformational system of services including homeless prevention, outreach and engagement, emergency shelter, supportive services, and permanent supportive housing. Taking an A-to-Z approach to address the complex issue of homelessness achieves effective results!
It starts with Homeless Prevention
Our goal is to ensure that those at risk of falling into homelessness have resources and assistance. This safety net approach is key to preventing homelessness.
(Our tenant-based rental assistance program is one of several strategies that we use to prevent homelessness.)
Balancing Compassion & Enforcement
Corona’s approach to outreach and engagement includes multi-disciplinary teams that include our Corona Police Department Homeless Outreach & Psychological Evaluation (HOPE) Team and social workers employed by our contracted partner, City Net.
This best practice model facilitates relationships with Corona’s homeless residents through street outreach and engagement for enrollment in case management, supportive services, emergency shelter, and permanent housing programs. City Net also operates the City of Corona’s 25-room per night motel emergency shelter program.
Providing More than just a Shelter
As part of the homeless system of services, Corona’s City Council approved an investment of $3 million to renovate the Harrison HOPE Center. In December 2022, Corona’s City Council approved a partnership with Mercy House Living Centers to operate the City's homeless system of services.
The Harrison HOPE Center features an onsite clinic that will provide medical care, mental health and substance use treatment, oral care, and post hospital recuperative care. Mercy House will operate the shelter/navigation center and provide case management, life skills training, job development, transportation, pet accommodations, meals, emergency shelter, wrap-around services, housing navigation and permanent housing resources.
Ending Homelessness
One Person, One Family at a Time
Mercy House will also operate the City’s 12 units of supportive housing. Through a partnership with the County’s Housing and Workforce Services, project-based vouchers will ensure that Corona’s chronically homeless tenants only pay 30% of their income towards rent. Centro Medico Community Clinic will provide supportive services for all tenants, so they remain stable in a permanent housing environment.
