SANTA ANA, Calif.—Orange County officials announced it will begin a Cold Weather Emergency Program to aid the homeless during the winter months.
Between Dec. 1, 2021, and March 31, 2022, the California National Guard Armory in Santa Ana will be providing 80 beds on a nightly basis for homeless adults.
The program is hosted by Volunteers of America Los Angeles (VOALA) and will provide meals, showers, and a bed to participants daily between 5 p.m. until the following morning at 7 a.m.
This will be VOALA’s first seasonal shelter in Orange County, according to Orange County Health Care Agency Director of Operations Douglas Becht.
For over 30 years, VOALA has worked extensively with the homeless in Los Angeles County, operating seven Cold Weather Emergency Shelters at various sites, Becht told The Epoch Times.
As the program arrives in Orange County, participants and staff will be required to follow COVID-19 protocols and abide by daily screenings. COVID-19 testing and vaccines will also be made available on selected dates.
To access the shelter, the homeless must go to a pick-up and drop-off location at one of the two bus stops in Santa Ana located on Flower Street and Civic Center Drive, or on Walnut Street near First Street. Walk-ins will not be accepted.
The shelter will run seven days per week, including holidays.
