Q: What is the typical length of stay at the property?
Safe Parking
For safe parking on church property, you can structure the time of stay for three months or longer with a renewal option. Most safe car parking locations also have hours of operation from evening to morning hours. Some people using safe car parking locations are there while they save money for their own space. Others may be waiting for housing assistance, which can involve months-long waiting lists.
Tent Encampments
Agreements with sponsors of tent encampments generally have a three-month duration before the group moves to another location.
Tiny House Village
A Tiny House partnership with the city and case management organization would specify a several-year duration through a sunset date in the operating agreement.
Q: How do we get people referred to us?
Your group will partner with and coordinate with a local community organization that serves the unsheltered. They will screen applicants and conduct background checks as necessary and will let you know more about the individuals before you meet with them on arrival.
Q: What recourse do we have if someone is a nuisance to the neighbors or is engaged in illegal activity?
Each guest signs a Code of Conduct agreement that you and the partnering agency can enforce or provide a written warning. The safety of other guests is paramount. Any illegal activity should be reported to local authorities. Before launching there will be an agreement with the local municipality, which includes notification to the local police. Guests receive contact numbers for both you as the host, the coordinating agency and local law enforcement. Existing locations mention that guests become invested in their own safety and being able to stay on the property; they also become partners in keeping an eye out for and reporting unauthorized behavior.
Q: What do we need to get started?
Let us know which type of unsheltered service you are considering. We can fill you in on how to proceed, help you through an assessment of the suitability of your parking lot or other property and reach out to partnering agencies in your area. These efforts require a dedicated group of volunteers over the long term and the support of your clergy. We can advise on the size of that group, planning and the necessary roles for the project to be successful.
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