Are there real solutions to “homelessness?” Could we change the underlying dynamics that lead to chronic behavior problems downtown, illegal camping in and around the city, and the bedeviling self-perception there is nothing we can do about it? Maybe.
Monica Martinez will present “Smart Solutions,” a program being implemented in 130 communities nationwide, at a Chamber briefing Wednesday October 17, 2012. Based upon new methods, proven to be highly successful in New York and Los Angeles, this program focuses on the chronically homeless. The comprehensive intervention of Smart Solutions projects has proven to not only permanently end homelessness for participants but to do so remarkably cost-effectively – reducing the direct monthly costs to the community by more than 75%.
Here is how Monica frames these issues: We know that homelessness is a problem in Santa Cruz and across the nation. Locally, homelessness is a lightning rod issue that is frequently linked to debates about economic vitality, public safety, and human rights. Whichever slant you take, homelessness is a complex, community-wide problem that has large-scale implications on the quality of life of all who call Santa Cruz home. But, what if we challenged ourselves to rethink our community’s approach to homelessness? What if we approached homelessness as if it was a solvable problem?
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Monica Martinez is fundamentally changing the approach to homelessness in Santa Cruz, focusing on community partnerships and innovative solutions since becoming the Executive Director of the Homeless Services Center in April 2010. Prior to moving to Santa Cruz, Monica spent five years working at the Los Angeles Downtown Women's Center, a national model in permanent supportive housing, serving formerly homeless women in downtown LA’s skid row. Monica's is mobilizing the community around a single goal: to collaboratively build solutions toward ending homelessness in Santa Cruz. Monica holds a Masters in Public Administration with an emphasis in nonprofit management from the University of Southern California and has been recognized with a 2012 Santa Cruz NEXTie Award and a Women's Policy Institute Fellowship. Cost: $15 -- Includes a light Breakfast