This month, Governor Newsom added San Mateo County to the list to receive Project Homekey funding, a program that allows counties to purchase and rehabilitate hotels, motels and vacant apartment buildings to support the homeless.
In this last round of state funding, our County was granted $33 million that will enable us to purchase two hotels to provide 170 units of interim housing. These units will be available to homeless and to seniors who are at risk for homelessness. It will enable us to help these critically vulnerable populations as the colder months approach.
The two properties include the Pacific Inn in Redwood City and TownePlace Suites Hotel in Redwood Shores. This is positive news as ending homelessness was already a top priority for our Board when COVID-19 hit and the pandemic only magnified the need to provide permanent housing and shelter opportunities for those who will accept our help.