The City of Santa Rosa is pleased to announce the award of new funding from the County of Sonoma that will allow the Cityās Safe Parking Program to remain fully operational through June 2027. Acting on recommendations from the Sonoma County Department of Health Services (DHS), the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors has approved a combined $979,040 in Measure O and Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention (HHAP) funds to support this essential community program.
The Safe Parking Program provides individuals experiencing homelessness with a secure and stable place to stay overnight while connecting with vital services, case management, and pathways to permanent housing. The newly awarded funding ensures continued consistency in services for participants working toward longāterm housing stability.
About the FundingĀ
In August 2025, DHS released its Measure O Behavioral Health and Homelessness Pathways to Sustainability Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA), inviting local governments and community-based organizations to apply for support for programs that strengthen Sonoma Countyās behavioral health and homelessness services network. Out of 52 proposals submitted, the City of Santa Rosaās Safe Parking Program was selected to receive Measure O funding. The program has been awarded:
$479,040 in Measure O funding, supporting countywide initiatives that address behavioral health, care coordination, and homelessness.
$500,000 in HHAP funds, a state-funded block grant that supports effective homelessness response activities, including interim housing and supportive services.
Together, these resources provide a stable financial foundation for the Safe Parking ProgramĀ through June 2027.
A Continued Commitment to Addressing Homelessness
Measure Oāapproved by Sonoma County voters in 2020āgenerates approximately $30 million annually for behavioral health and homelessness services. DHS, guided by recommendations from a Community Advisory Panel, carefully evaluated proposals toĀ maintainĀ a balanced, effective network of services countywide.
The City of Santa Rosa is honored that the Safe Parking Program was recognized as a critical service for residents in need. The program offers:
Overnight security and stability
Restroom and hygiene access
Case management and supportive services
Pathways to shelter, employment, and permanent housing
This new funding ensures Santa Rosa can continue providing a safe, managed parking environment where participants receive theĀ supportĀ they need to regain stability.
Looking Ahead
Funding secured through June 2027 reinforces a shared countywide commitment to addressing homelessness through compassionate, evidence-based strategies. The City extends its gratitude to the County of Sonoma, DHS, the Community Advisory Panel, and the voters whose support makes these resources possible. Together, we are building a more supportive and resilient community for all.
About the Safe Parking Program
Opened on March 7, 2022, the City of Santa Rosaās Safe Parking Program provides up to 52 dedicated parking spaces for adults experiencing homelessness. In addition to offering a secure overnight location for vehicles and RVs, participants receive access to food, sanitation, showers, and comprehensive wraparound services that help them resolve their homelessness in alignment with the Cityās Homelessness Solutions Strategic Plan.
In its first three years, the program supported 307 individuals, helping 31 people transition to temporary housing and 86 secure permanent housingādemonstrating meaningful progress toward longāterm stability for participants. Enrollment and referrals are managed by Catholic Charitiesā Homeless Outreach Services Team (HOST), available by phone at 707ā978ā8329, by email atĀ HOST@ccnwc.org, or in person at the Caritas Drop-In Center, 301 6th Street, Suite 108.