Homeward Bound of Marin

Adult Program Services - Homeward of Marin provides shelter and housing for adults overcoming homelessness in Marin through residential programs ranging from emergency shelter to permanent supportive housing. In the past year, Homeward Bound of Marin served 736 adults, including 53 veterans, and 63% transitioned to housing opportunities. There remained a strong demand for the innovative program for adults leaving hospital care without stable housing, resulting in 99 people receiving medical respite services, up almost 14% from the prior year. 224 adults received enhanced care plans with support from the State of Californias CalAIM initiative, which coordinates care more closely with medical providers while using blood pressure checks, nutrition check-ins, and other strategies. Homeward Bound continues to support vulnerable adults in shelter and supportive housing who face food insecurity by preparing and distributing over 15,000 meals a month to ensure their nutrition needs are met. In addition, 24 newly completed units of veterans housing and 26 apartments for people working in the community will expand capacity to end veteran homelessness in Marin and assist more adults to end homelessness in their lives.

Family Program Services - Homeward Bound has operated the only shelter in Marin County for homeless families since 1974, along with seven permanent supportive family housing programs. Families continued seeking support last year with a total of 115 parents and 130 children receiving services. Many faced challenges beyond housing needs, including domestic violence, chronic health conditions, and mental health needs. Given the particular struggles of young parents, a new program launched to serve the needs of people aged 18 to 26 who head a household with children. Families engaged in this program are building lasting resilience to break the cycle of homelessness. Overall last year, 81% of families served by Homeward Bound left for housing opportunities

Job Training and Social Enterprise Program - Homeward Bound offers the only free culinary arts training and job creation program in Marin County specifically designed to help homeless and low-income individuals overcome barriers to employment. Since 2001, Homeward Bound has helped over 1,000 people launch their careers through the Fresh Starts Culinary Academy. In addition, innovative social enterprise businesses provide a source of income and ongoing skill-building for Fresh Starts graduates and other low-income job seekers. Last year, 81 people built their career prospects though job training and supportive employment at Homeward Bound. An expanded job-training center will open in 2025 to provide more training and job opportunities for people who are exiting homelessness and poverty and advancing their careers.