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Eviction Crisis Solution: A Lifeline for Santa Clara County
20 Mar
Summary
- A new nonprofit offers emergency services for eviction prevention.
- Most unsheltered individuals experienced homelessness for the first time.
- The service provides customized plans for financial and legal aid.
Recent data reveals that nearly 60% of the nearly 11,000 unsheltered individuals in Santa Clara County are experiencing homelessness for the first time. In response, Shannon Clark founded Havensafe, a San Jose-based nonprofit dedicated to preventing evictions and homelessness.
Havensafe operates as an "emergency room" for those facing eviction, offering a lifeline through a dedicated hotline. Volunteers assist callers in navigating available resources, including millions of dollars in rental assistance and legal options. The nonprofit utilizes a software program to generate personalized plans encompassing financial aid, legal support, and employment services.
Since its establishment in 2024, Havensafe has served over 1,200 people, successfully keeping more than 96% of them from becoming homeless. Clark emphasizes the importance of reaching out early, encouraging residents to contact Havensafe as soon as they anticipate difficulty paying rent, rather than waiting for an official eviction notice.
Shannon Clark was honored with the CBS News Bay Area ICON Award for her impactful work. Her initiative demonstrates how a determined individual can significantly address critical community needs, offering hope and practical solutions to vulnerable residents.
